President Milei's Ushuaia Campaign Event Modified Amid Protests

Presidential Visit to Ushuaia Faces Opposition

President Javier Milei's visit to Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego, on Monday, September 29, 2025, encountered disruptions as planned campaign activities were modified due to protests. The Argentine president, accompanied by his sister Karina Milei, had traveled to the southernmost province to support candidates from La Libertad Avanza (LLA) ahead of the October 26 elections for national senators and deputies.

Protests Force Change in Schedule

The primary event, a scheduled walk through the city center, was 'relocalized preventively' or 'suspended' due to the presence of numerous protesters. Instead of the public walk, President Milei addressed his supporters with a megaphone from the Hotel Albatros, where he was staying. Security forces, including the Gendarmerie, formed a cordon to keep the demonstrators at a distance.

The protests were spearheaded by the Unión Obrera Metalúrgica (UOM) and Kirchnerist militants, alongside other opposition groups like ATE. Demonstrators voiced strong opposition to Milei's administration, chanting 'Milei, no sos bienvenido' ('Milei, you are not welcome'). Their grievances included 'policies of adjustment,' 'loss of jobs,' and the 'dismantling of the State,' specifically citing concerns over the opening to imports and changes affecting the Tierra del Fuego industrial regime. Earlier in the day, Milei had visited the Newsan factory in Ushuaia, where he also faced initial demonstrations.

Milei Addresses Supporters and Critics

During his brief address from the hotel, President Milei downplayed the protests, characterizing the unionism involved as 'very politicized' and aligned with what he termed the 'party of the State' and the past. He reiterated his government's commitment to its agenda, stating, 'La Libertad Avanza o la Argentina retrocede' ('Liberty Advances or Argentina retrocedes'). Milei also claimed that his policies had led to a decrease in inflation, insecurity, poverty, and indigence, urging his supporters not to falter.

The incident in Ushuaia marks another instance of public opposition during Milei's campaign appearances, with previous events in locations such as Lomas de Zamora and Corrientes also experiencing tensions. The Kirchnerist governor of Tierra del Fuego, Gustavo Melella, reportedly supported the protests against the president's visit.