The historic fuel price increase represents a severe supply shock that will curtail economic growth, elevate inflation to 4%, and significantly erode households' real income. The domino effect in freight transport will raise the total cost of goods, hitting the most vulnerable households particularly hard during the second quarter of 2026. Various analysts assert that generating such an internal shock with the removal of MEPCO was unnecessary; at the very least, the measures could have been gradual.

Over 8 million people protested across the U.S. on Saturday, March 28, under the slogan "No Kings," marking the largest single-day protest in the nation's history. With 3,300 events in all 50 states, citizens voiced their opposition to Trump's authoritarian agenda, the war in Iran, and ICE's immigration policies.

The fuel crisis sparks a nationwide uproar among workers, raising serious concerns about Kast's government. Polls reveal a historic drop in approval ratings: disapproval rises by 30 points. Social media fills with regretful voters as demonstrators make their voices heard. Unfulfilled promises and measures absent during the election campaign are now under scrutiny.

Changa communities of the Humboldt Archipelago raise alarm over environmental setbacks by the government and reaffirm their opposition to the Dominga project. They defend Law 20.249 and distance themselves from unrecognized groups that instrumentalize indigenous identity, declaring their territory is 'under defense' against extractive threats.

Brazilian President Lula da Silva and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum reaffirmed their support for former Chilean leader Michelle Bachelet's candidacy for the UN Secretary-General, following the withdrawal of backing from Kast's government. The leaders highlight her extensive experience and multilateral profile, as Mexico and Brazil stand firmly behind the candidacy.

The government's budget cut of $72 billion to the Ministry of Security, heavily impacting police funding by 94%, has sparked significant criticism. Hugo Frühling from the University of Chile warns about the lack of clarity and the risk of diminishing public trust. Senator Juan Luis Castro labels the measure incomprehensible, highlighting operational ramifications amid a "security emergency." Sociologist Axel Callís questions the logic behind applying a uniform 3% cut across all sectors.

The United Nations General Assembly approved a resolution classifying the transatlantic slave trade as the most severe crime against humanity, backed by 123 votes. Argentina, the United States, and Israel opposed this resolution, while 52 nations abstained, highlighting a significant international isolation regarding human rights.

Senate President Paulina Núñez (RN) criticized the government's handling of communication amid rising fuel prices, warning about effects on legislative discussions. Experts like Ignacio Briones and Juan Carvajal questioned the term "bankrupt state" and the lack of coordination. The Executive defended its actions, asserting it "does not fall apart."

Daniel Titelman, an expert in macroeconomic and financial matters, and Head of the Development Studies Section at ECLAC, recently stated that the claims by Kast's Government regarding a lack of resources are "strange and imprecise." He highlights that Chile has the lowest external debt in Latin America (41%) and a "solid" fiscal situation compared to the region and OECD, attributing the handling of price increases to a "political decision."

"No serious economist from any sector has recommended eliminating the Mepco in practice, especially not all at once," stated the senator, pointing out that "while families face avoidable price hikes, Kast's government is pushing to eliminate taxes on capital gains and lighten the burden on large companies. Thus, the fiscal adjustment ultimately falls on those who have the least," he warned.