Argentina's president warned of a tough response to protests. He's about to face the first one

[Yo_Mama_Been_Loggin]

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina (AP) — Just days after taking office, Argentine President Javier Milei’s government announced drastic economic measures that angered some social and labor groups, and warned it would crack down on any protests blocking streets.

The right-wing populist on Wednesday will face the first test of how his administration responds to demonstrations after those groups called on people to turn out to protest the economic shock measures, which Milei has said are needed to address Argentina’s severe crisis.

The shocks include a 50% devaluation of the Argentine peso, cuts to energy and transportation subsidies, and the closure of some government ministries. They come amid soaring inflation and rising poverty.

Milei’s security minister, Patricia Bullrich, presented a new “protocol” to maintain public order that allows federal forces to clear people blocking streets without a judicial order and authorizes the police to identify — through video or digital means — people protesting and obstructing public thoroughfares. It can bill them for the cost of mobilizing security forces.

https://apnews.com/article/argentina-javier-milei-protests-economy-social-groups-c1b7d6506769f1331c37db6e16fe29a1

[peppertree]

1. Milei's trying to force the dollarization of Argentina by way of a depression

The biggest obstacle to that pipe dream of his, has always been not so much political - but the obvious fact that Argentina has 40 trillion pesos in deposits, plus 6 trillion in cash.

There is no way in hell he can find the dollars needed to compensate everyone for all that - unless (he believes) he can force businesses and families to burn through all those pesos themselves.

And the only way to accomplish that, is through a hyperinflation/depression.

I doubt he'll last long enough to impose his dollarization delusion - but one thing's certain: this mega-crisis he's inflicting on them, will take years to recover from.

Something Argentines are used to by now, at least.

Here are scenes from today's protests - which are on the their 2nd day, and have become nationwide: