Argentine Chancellor Echoes Milei's Attacks on Brazil's Lula, Escalating Tensions

Argentine Chancellor Pablo Quirno has mirrored President Javier Milei's aggressive rhetoric towards Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, amplifying tensions between the two neighboring countries. During a convention in São Paulo where Milei labeled Lula a "thief" and "convict," Quirno, part of the presidential delegation, later reposted Milei's full speech, which was replete with insults and critical references to Brazil's president and policies.

Quirno's active participation and defense of Milei's controversial statements on social media highlight a "militant" facet of his diplomacy. This approach has been compared to that of U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who is known for blending diplomatic duties with an unwavering defense of his president's ideological stances. Quirno has justified Milei's attacks by claiming Lula's advisors supported Argentine presidential candidate Sergio Massa during the election campaign.

In response to Milei's inflammatory remarks, Brazil has recalled its ambassador from Buenos Aires, Julio Bitelli, signaling a significant diplomatic rift. Officials in Brasília expressed disapproval of Quirno's presence at the event alongside Bolsonaro and Tarcisio de Freitas, the mayor of São Paulo, viewing it as part of the same provocative package. Since taking office nine months ago, Quirno has emphasized a strong alliance with the United States and Israel, while also exhibiting a combative online persona that aligns with the aggressive communication style employed by Milei and his supporters against opponents and critical media.