Argentine Pensioners and Soccer Fans Unite in Protest Against Austerity Policies

Clashes erupt in Buenos Aires as demonstrators demand higher pensions and denounce cuts under President Javier Milei's government.

Thousands of retirees and soccer fans from rival clubs gathered in Buenos Aires to protest pension cuts and austerity measures implemented by President Javier Milei.
The demonstration, initially peaceful, escalated into violent clashes as riot police used tear gas, rubber bullets, and water cannons to disperse protesters throwing rocks and debris.
At least 15 people were injured, including a journalist critically wounded by a projectile, and over 100 protesters were arrested during the unrest near Congress and Plaza de Mayo.
Protesters chanted slogans comparing Milei's government to Argentina's military dictatorship and criticized policies that have left many pensioners struggling to afford basic needs like medicine and food.
The participation of soccer fans, inspired by a viral video of Diego Maradona defending retirees, marked an unprecedented show of solidarity with Argentina's elderly population.