Protests erupted in Madrid as Argentinian President Javier Milei opted to skip a meeting with the Spanish Prime Minister and attend a far-right summit organized by the Vox party instead. Hundreds of protesters gathered in Madrid to express their opposition to Milei’s visit, with many Argentinian citizens living in Spain participating in the demonstrations. Milei’s decision to snub diplomatic meetings and attend a far-right summit is seen as a significant move towards the international consolidation of fascism.
Even before his arrival in Madrid, Milei had stirred controversy by criticizing the socialist government of Spain and making allegations against the Prime Minister’s wife. This unconventional visit is in line with Milei’s reputation as a global far-right figure who has gained popularity among influential individuals such as Elon Musk and Donald Trump. Milei’s participation in the Vox summit, which aims to unite far-right figures from Europe ahead of the European parliamentary elections, is described as a “moral imperative” by the Argentinian president.
The tensions between Milei and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez began when Sánchez failed to congratulate Milei on his election victory last November. The situation worsened when one of Sánchez’s ministers suggested that Milei may have used narcotics. In response, the Argentinian presidency released a statement criticizing Sánchez’s government for its socialist policies that allegedly lead to poverty and death. The statement also referenced corruption accusations against Sánchez’s wife, which had threatened the Prime Minister’s position in office.
Milei’s visit to Madrid and his decision to participate in the Vox summit highlight the growing popularity of far-right ideologies in Europe. The protests in Madrid reflect a global concern over the rise of fascism and the impact it may have on international politics. Milei’s association with prominent figures like Elon Musk and Donald Trump further solidifies his position within the far-right movement, both in Argentina and abroad. As the tensions between Milei and Sánchez continue to escalate, the political landscape in Spain and Europe may witness significant changes in the upcoming months.
Overall, Javier Milei’s visit to Madrid and his attendance at a far-right summit have sparked protests and controversy, drawing attention to the growing influence of far-right ideologies in Europe and beyond. The demonstrations in Madrid reflect a broader global concern over the rise of fascism and its potential impact on international relations. Milei’s confrontational approach towards diplomatic relations and his alignment with far-right groups like Vox indicate a shift towards more polarized political ideologies in the region. As tensions between Milei and Sánchez persist, the political landscape in Spain and Europe may undergo significant shifts in the near future.