President Javier Milei made a surprise visit to Bahía Blanca on Wednesday, the city devastated by a violent storm that left at least 16 dead and dozens missing. Accompanied by Chief of Staff Guillermo Francos, Presidential Secretary Karina Milei, Security Minister Patricia Bullrich, and Defense Minister Luis Petri, the president toured the affected area and monitored the relief operation.

Criticism and Government Response

The visit came amid accusations from the opposition, who claimed he showed “emotional disconnection” from the victims. Former President Cristina Kirchner criticized Milei’s response, while Buenos Aires Governor Axel Kicillof warned that reconstruction costs would far exceed the $400 billion estimated by Mayor Federico Susbielles.

Government sources explained that the visit was kept secret to avoid political exploitation and emphasized that Milei had been in daily contact with the mayor before traveling. They also pointed out that the President did not bring photographers or a communications team, ensuring that the trip was not perceived as a political event.

Emergency Fund Announcement

Following his visit, the Office of the President announced the creation of a $200 billion emergency fund for reconstruction and victim assistance. The statement also took a sharp jab at Kicillof, accusing him of “using the suffering of Buenos Aires residents for political purposes.”

Relief Efforts Underway

The national government had already transferred $10 billion in emergency funds, deployed Hercules aircraft carrying supplies, and coordinated the shipment of a train loaded with food and humanitarian aid from Buenos Aires. However, the scale of the disaster demands further measures to rebuild infrastructure, homes, and hospitals that suffered severe damage.

Milei reaffirmed his commitment to the victims and the reconstruction of Bahía Blanca, as the city faces one of the worst climate disasters in its history.