Brazilians sick of corrupt politicians hit the streets to protest austerity measures

Police clash with striking union workers in streets of Rio de Janeiro and Sio Paulo as protesters in 26 states demonstrate against Michel Temer's proposed reforms

Brazilian unions have ratcheted up the pressure on president Michel Temer with a nationwide general strike that closed schools, disrupted transport networks and led to clashes with public security in several cities.

Demonstrators in Rio de Janeiro and Sio Paulo blocked key roads with barricades of burning tires on. Riot police used teargas and percussion grenades to try to disperse the crowds and open the routes.