US EditionPublished • loading... • Updated
Argentina fires ravage pristine Patagonia forests, fueling criticism of Milei’s austerity
Wildfires have destroyed over 45,000 hectares of native forest in Patagonia amid 80% and 71% budget cuts to firefighting agencies in 2024 and 2026, experts say.
- On Monday, wildfires were still burning in Los Alerces National Park, producing thick smoke and dramatic night flames in the drought-stricken Patagonia region.
- President Javier Milei's austerity measures cut fire‑fighting budgets sharply, slashing the National Fire Management Service by 80% in 2024 and cutting National Park Administration funds last year.
- A 2023 National Park Administration report recommended 700 firefighters, but the park agency employs just 391 now after losing 10% of staff, while cuts reduced training and equipment, forcing firefighters and volunteer brigades to rely on donations.
- Amid protests and criticism, President Javier Milei relented Thursday, declaring a state of emergency that unlocked $70 million for volunteer firefighters, critics say he was slow to act.
- Local residents and volunteers warn the losses go beyond landscape to livelihoods, as fires destroyed more than 45,000 hectares of native forest and threaten ancient 2,600-year-old trees in Los Alerces National Park.
Insights by Ground AI
17 Articles
17 Articles
The ColumbianReposted by 
Washington Times
Washington TimesArgentina fires ravage pristine Patagonia forests, fueling criticism of Milei’s austerity
LOS ALERCES NATIONAL PARK, Argentina — These days, the majestic, forested slopes of Argentina’s Patagonia look like a war zone. Read more...
·Vancouver, United States
Read Full Article
Patagonia Ablaze: Fires Fuel Frustration Over Government Austerity | Science-Environment
Los Alerces National Park in Argentina's Patagonia is being devastated by wildfires fueled by climate change and governmental austerity measures. President Javier Milei's spending cuts have crippled firefighting resources, prompting widespread criticism. Resignation among officials and firefighters grows as relief struggles under dire financial strains, exacerbating the crisis.
·India
Read Full Article
Coverage Details
Total News Sources17
Leaning Left6Leaning Right2Center6Last UpdatedBias Distribution43% Left, 43% Center
Bias Distribution
- 43% of the sources lean Left, 43% of the sources are Center
43% Center
L 43%
C 43%
14%
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
