Clashes in Buenos Aires: Pensioners and Boca fans clash with police over economic crisis

Argentina retirees and supporters of various soccer teams clashed with police in front of Congress in Buenos Aires while protesting against President Javier Milei’s economic policies. (Image credits: AP)

Tensions escalated when a large group of Boca Juniors fans, waving flags and chanting in solidarity with the retirees, attempted to advance toward Congress. Police formed a barrier to stop them, while at the back of the protest, elderly demonstrators were pushed back by high-pressure water cannons fired from two tanks near the legislative assembly. (Image credits: AP)

What began as a peaceful demonstration turned violent as authorities used water cannons, tear gas, and pellets against protesters who responded by throwing stones. Police had already deployed shotguns and water hoses before the demonstration. (Image credits: AP)

For weeks, retirees in Buenos Aires have staged weekly protests demanding higher pensions, citing economic hardship. While previous demonstrations saw minor incidents, including tear gas being used on elderly protesters, this protest was the most intense so far. (Image credits: AP)

Since taking office a year and a half ago, far-right President Javier Milei has pushed for public spending cuts. His government had previously warned of penalties for those causing disorder, including restrictions on attending soccer matches.(Image credits: AP)

A resolution from Argentina’s ministry of security prohibits anyone involved in violent acts or disruptions to security, traffic, or public order from entering soccer stadiums. Fans engaged in riots will face bans from attending their team’s games for a period determined by authorities. (Image credits: AP)

As clashes erupted near Congress and Plaza de Mayo, the crowd chanted, "Milei, garbage, you are the dictatorship!"—drawing comparisons between his government and Argentina’s military junta, which ruled from 1976 to 1983. (Image credits: AP)