Pope Leo XIV Challenges Javier Milei’s Austerity Measures During Argentina Visit

Pope Leo XIV criticizes Javier Milei’s austerity measures in Argentina, Digi Mart USA News (Argentina): Speaking after his arrival in Argentina on Sunday, local time, Pope Leo XIV sharply criticized the austerity measures of President Javier Milei. “The economy must serve people,” and not the other way around, the head of the Catholic Church said.

It is the first papal visit to Argentina in almost 40 years.

The pope emphasized the plight of those who “despite hard work still have difficulty making a living.” He said “special attention must be paid to those affected by illness, dependency and disability,” an apparent reference to the controversial cuts by the Argentine government to disability assistance.

Leo XIV told Milei that strengthening democracy requires “a willingness to listen” and the careful use of words. Milei said his government wants to avoid “punishing the Argentines of tomorrow to benefit the Argentines of today.”

The relationship between Leo XIV and Milei is being closely watched. During his election campaign, Milei harshly attacked Leo’s predecessor, Pope Francis, who died in 2025, over his advocacy for social justice, but publicly apologized after winning the election.

During his stay, Leo XIV plans to celebrate three open-air Masses and visit a prison, a home for people with disabilities and a pilgrimage site. An evening prayer service at the Cathedral of Buenos Aires is also scheduled for Monday.

The Catholic Church expects up to seven million visitors across the various events.

The visit holds special significance for many Argentines. Pope Francis was born in Argentina and served as Archbishop of Buenos Aires before his election as pope.

His failure to return to his homeland during his twelve-year pontificate disappointed many of his compatriots.

Leo XIV first visited Uruguay. The 71-year-old is making his twelve-day South American trip only about three and a half weeks after lung cancer surgery.

On Wednesday he continues to Peru, where he served for roughly two decades as a missionary and bishop.