Argentinian President Javier Milei, who likes to portray himself as a lion, was welcomed by Madrid President Isabel Diaz Ayuso on Friday in the Spanish capital. Milei did not hold back in criticizing the principles of the social rule of law enshrined in the Spanish Constitution, describing social justice as “a horrible, impoverishing monster… a truly aberrant, deeply unjust, and deeply violent idea”. He also claimed that taxes are theft, as they are not paid voluntarily, but rather at gunpoint. Accusing President Pedro Sánchez of corruption without mentioning him by name, Milei suggested that public funds are lost in the hands of politicians or their relatives.
During the event, Milei criticized socialism as being based on “hatred, envy, and resentment” and warned of its supposed destructive effects. He linked communism, Stalinism, and social democracy together, attributing historical crimes to all three and urging Spaniards to oppose this ideology in all its forms to prevent socialism from ruining their lives. Ayuso praised Milei for drastic social cuts and freezing of public investments during his first six months in office, referring to it as the “largest adjustment in the history of humanity”. Despite their political differences, Ayuso attempted to highlight similarities between their ideologies, while Milei made it clear that his ally was the far-right rather than Ayuso’s European People’s Party.
The visit of Milei to Madrid has stirred diplomatic tensions between the two governments, particularly after his previous insults towards President Sánchez and his wife during a visit to Spain a month earlier. Upon arriving at Puerta del Sol, Milei was cheerfully welcomed by supporters chanting phrases in support of him and freedom. Ayuso received him on the street in a ceremonial manner, accompanied by her Cabinet. After a meeting that extended beyond the scheduled time, they appeared on a balcony to greet the crowd, before descending to sign the book of honor and Milei receiving the international medal of the Community of Madrid from Ayuso.
In the morning, Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares denied claims made by Ayuso that Milei’s visit was official, stating it was a private visit. Despite this, the meeting between Ayuso and Milei at the Real Casa de Correos proceeded as planned, followed by an event at the Casino de Madrid where supporters gathered to show their backing for both leaders. Demonstrations against the media occurred, with attendees accusing them of manipulation and expressing their support for Milei and Ayuso. The presence of far-right figures such as Santiago Abascal and Hermann Tertsch further heightened the political atmosphere surrounding the visit.
The overall message conveyed during Milei’s visit to Madrid was one of defiance against traditional political structures and advocacy for radical changes in economic and social policies. While Milei’s rhetoric may have resonated with his supporters and some within the far-right community, it also stirred controversy and tensions with the Spanish government. The visit highlighted ideological differences between Milei and Ayuso, raising questions about the future of their political collaboration and the implications of aligning with far-right ideologies in a European context. As Milei continues to make waves on the international stage, the aftermath of his visit to Madrid may have lasting repercussions on diplomatic relations and political dynamics in both Argentina and Spain.
