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

In a dramatic fallout over pension reforms, Argentine President Javier Milei has clashed publicly with his Vice President Victoria Villarruel, following a Senate vote aimed at raising pensions which Milei opposed. Villarruel has urged Milei to "grow up" amid accusations and criticisms exchanged between the two leaders.

Argentine President Javier Milei and his Vice President Victoria Villarruel have found themselves at the center of a public dispute over proposed pension reforms, revealing a deepening rift within the government. The conflict escalated after the Senate voted in favor of a motion to increase pensions and disability benefits—a move that Milei had adamantly opposed.

In response to the Senate’s approval, Milei expressed his anger through social media posts, sharing comments that branded Villarruel as "stupid" and "traitorous." This prompted Villarruel to fire back, telling the president to "grow up" in an Instagram response that highlighted the urgency of addressing the needs of pensioners.

Milei had attempted to assert his authority post-defeat in Congress, positioning himself as protector of fiscal discipline by pledging to veto the pension increase. He argued that the additional spending threatened his administration's goal of eliminating Argentina's long-standing fiscal deficit and controlling inflation. In the wake of this calamity, Milei reiterated his commitment to budgetary prudence, touting the significant budget surplus registered in January as a key achievement.

The legislation's support base emphasized the necessity of higher payments for pensioners struggling to afford basic living costs, a concern that has fueled weekly protests outside Congress. Villarruel, acting in her capacity as Senate leader, allowed the vote to proceed, even as allies of the president boycotted the session.

While Milei has defended his austerity measures, which have led to a notable decrease in inflation rates to 1.5%, protests have erupted in response to the government's approach to budget cuts, particularly affecting vulnerable populations like pensioners. Villarruel suggested that downsizing expenditures on intelligence services and foreign travel could free up resources for social support systems instead.

As tensions flare between the two leaders, Villarruel's advice to Milei to adopt a more mature demeanor illustrates the escalating pressure he faces not only from his political partner but also from the public demands for welfare reforms. The internal conflict within the Argentine leadership reflects broader societal anxieties regarding economic policies and their implications for the most affected citizens.