US revokes Brazilian envoy's visa in latest diplomatic escalation
The United States has revoked the visa of Brazil's ambassador in Washington, marking a sharp escalation in an increasingly bitter diplomatic dispute between the Trump administration and President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva's government, as tensions spill into Brazil's election season.
The US State Department said Ambassador Maria Luiza Ribeiro Viotti's visa was cancelled in response to Brazil's refusal to approve President Donald Trump's nominee for ambassador to Brasília and its decision last month to deny visas to two US diplomats ahead of Brazil's October presidential election.
The move does not expel Viotti from the United States, but means she would need to apply for a new visa if she leaves the country. Washington described the measure as "reciprocal" and said the visa could be restored if Brazil approves ambassador-designate Daniel Perez.
Brasília condemned the decision, accusing Washington of escalating pressure for ideological reasons and attempting to influence the election. Brazilian officials also argued that the United States broke diplomatic protocol by publicly announcing Perez's nomination before receiving Brazil's formal approval, adding that no decision would be made before the first round of voting in October.
The dispute has widened beyond diplomatic appointments.
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Last month Brazil refused entry to two senior US officials, saying their planned visit on election integrity and religious freedom amounted to interference in domestic politics. Washington rejected the accusation.
The latest confrontation adds to months of deteriorating relations between the region's two largest democracies, which have also clashed over trade tariffs, organised crime and broader regional policy.
Lula has accused the Trump administration of undermining Brazil's sovereignty, while Washington maintains it is responding to actions taken by Brasília and insists it remains committed to restoring normal diplomatic ties.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
