Tensions Rise Between Argentina's President Milei and VP Villarruel over Pension Hike

A public clash between Argentine President Javier Milei and his vice president, Victoria Villarruel, unfolds amid a contentious debate over pension increases following a congressional vote. Villarruel's backing of the pension hike contradicts Milei's fiscal austerity promises, leading to a battle of accusations and blame.

Argentine President Javier Milei is embroiled in a contentious dispute with his vice president, Victoria Villarruel, concerning the approval of increased pensions by the Senate. The conflict escalated when Milei condemned Villarruel on social media, labeling her as "stupid" and a "traitor" for permitting the pension debate to proceed, which he strongly opposed. The approval of pension increases, aimed at aiding senior citizens and those with disabilities, was made possible by a government boycott that left pro-government senators absent, enabling the motion to pass with a decisive majority.

Milei vowed to veto the pension hike, arguing that it jeopardizes the fiscal surplus he has prioritized. His administration has seen a budget surplus for the first time in over a decade, with January marking a significant economic milestone. Alongside this, inflation rates have dropped, although the austerity measures implemented have sparked protests among citizens, particularly pensioners demanding better support.

In response to Milei's accusations, Villarruel, who oversees the Senate, defended the urgent need for pension adjustments, asserting that vulnerable groups can no longer wait for financial support. She suggested that the government could save money in areas such as intelligence services instead of cutting vital benefits for the elderly. In a bid to counter the vitriol, she challenged Milei to mature in his handling of the situation and address the public demands more responsibly.

The tensions between Milei and Villarruel reflect the underlying challenges faced by the libertarian president as he navigates economic reforms while managing inter-party relations and public expectations in a politically charged environment.