“Irresponsible move,” says Lula after ambassador’s visa is revoked

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva expressed his disapproval of the US government's decision to revoke the visa of his country's ambassador to the United States, Maria Luiza Ribeiro Viotti. The US administration provided no specific reason for the move, except to mention Brazil's tardiness in granting approval to a US nominee to head the US Embassy in Brazil. The Brazilian government countered that the allegations were baseless.

During an interview on Wednesday, President Lula called the action "irresponsible" and "ill-advised," especially for a nation with a long history of diplomatic relations spanning 203 years. He further criticized the US for not sending an ambassador to Brazil, despite holding office for over a year and a half, and for attempting to send one now, claiming that Brazil is not obligated to comply with their demands.

Lula also criticized the US for doubting the integrity of Brazil's electoral process, noting their intention to send visitors to Brazil allegedly to sow doubt. Lula expressed his refusal to accept any foreign interference in the upcoming Brazilian elections scheduled for October. He emphasized Brazil's readiness and determination to defend itself against any external attempts at interference.