Burning tires: general strike begins with roadblocks

This Wednesday marks Spain's first general strike in 14 years, initiated by unions CCOO and UGT due to the rejection of housing decrees. Blockades with burning tires began early, disrupting access to major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia. Police intervened to clear roads, while protests intensified at transport hubs. Reports of police repression emerged, with one arrest and several injuries. The strike, lasting 24 hours, coincides with early national elections called by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez. Unions emphasize the importance of mobilization over economic impact, while opposition parties criticize the timing as politically motivated. The government supports the right to strike, maintaining a light agenda for ministers today.