Argentina's Javier Milei Faces Criminal Complaint Over $44 Billion IMF Agreement Without Congressional Approval

Argentinian President Javier Milei has faced legal challenges following the issuance of a decree that allows him to negotiate a new agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) without congressional approval. This decree, termed a 'decreto de necesidad y urgencia' (DNU), has prompted legislators from the Union for the Homeland to file a criminal complaint against Milei for alleged abuse of authority and violation of public duties. The opposition claims that any new debt agreement must receive congressional approval, a position supported by various political factions. The controversy has escalated amid ongoing discussions regarding a $44 billion debt from a previous IMF deal in 2018. Following the decree, the Chamber of Deputies approved the initiation of a commission to investigate a related cryptocurrency scandal involving the $Libra token, which has further intensified political tensions. A scheduled committee meeting to discuss the DNU was recently suspended due to disorder in Congress, including physical altercations among lawmakers, reflecting the contentious atmosphere surrounding Milei's administration and its financial dealings.