Union blocks streets, disrupts Argentine capital in protest of taxes, inflation

The start of a 36-hour strike by one of Argentina's more radical labor organizations is disrupting life in the capital.

Members of Argentina's Central Workers Union are blocking major thoroughfares in Buenos Aires in a protest over taxes and wages and the overall cost of living in the country.

Most public offices in the capital were closed Wednesday as a result of the strike and hospitals were operating with minimum staff. Truck drivers were expected to join the strike on Thursday and bring most commerce to a halt.

The protest was concentrated in the capital and nearby cities.

The Central Worker's Union includes various public-sector unions and leftists organizations. Their protest comes amid widespread anger over inflation and living costs.