US to grant Flavio Bolsonaro visa as he flees Brazil after election loss

The U.S. is set to grant entry visas to defeated right-wing presidential candidate Flavio Bolsonaro and his family, according to the Washington State Department of State. This move comes as media reports indicate the 45-year-old has fled Brazil following his election loss to incumbent Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on Sunday. Despite a court order barring his exit, Flavio Bolsonaro has maintained Italian nationality since 2023, as confirmed by an Italian parliamentary document.

The senator faces investigations for alleged corruption and money laundering, and his parliamentary immunity is expected to be revoked following his loss. Lula called fleeing the country a "shameful" act, suggesting those who leave their nation must have something to hide. Bolsonaro denied any intention to depart Brazil, stating he had no such plans in a video posted on Instagram.

While Lula won the election with 51.8 percent of the vote, Bolsonaro threatened to challenge the results, citing extended polling hours and transportation difficulties. The Supreme Court recently ordered police to investigate Flavio Bolsonaro's campaign and alleged foreign interference in the election, including through social media manipulation.