Demonstrators clashed with police on Thursday outside Congress during a mass protest demanding that President Javier Milei’s government comply with a law increasing funding for public universities.
The main demonstration, attended by thousands of students, teachers, university staff, trade unionists and opposition activists, was peaceful.
But dozens of mostly hooded demonstrators clashed with police around the Congress building, throwing stones and other projectiles.
Local media reported that some also damaged street furniture and paving stones shortly before the clashes began.
Officers responded by firing tear gas and deploying water cannons. Local reports also said security forces used pepper spray and rubber bullets.
The clashes took place around 150 metres from the main rally, where thousands had gathered for speeches and the reading of a statement by university organisations demanding the full implementation of the funding law.
Tear gas also reached the annex of the lower house Chamber of Deputies, affecting staff inside, according to local media.
At least one police officer was treated by an ambulance, according to footage broadcast live on television.
National Security Minister Alejandra Monteoliva accused demonstrators of seeking to provoke disorder. “The same violent people as always. They want to impose chaos, challenge the security forces and turn the streets into a lawless zone,” she wrote on X.
Germán Martínez, Peronist caucus leader in the lower house, offered a contrasting account, describing the clashes as a “provocation” and accusing police of failing to ensure the demonstration could proceed peacefully.
Protesters often allege that rallies are infiltrated by government-sponsored trouble-makers seeking to discredit them.
The protest followed days of strikes and demonstrations at universities, as well as court rulings ordering the government to comply with the 2025 University Funding Law, which provides for updated financing for public higher education.
– TIMES/NA/AFP
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