Diplomacy adopts caution; government not intending to leave Argentina without diplomatic representation

Brazil's diplomatic corps is exercising caution in its public statements concerning Argentina, even after President Javier Milei's sharp criticisms. The Brazilian government does not intend, at present, to leave Argentina without diplomatic representation. This measured approach comes after a period of strained relations, exacerbated by Milei's strong comments directed at President Lula and a Supreme Court minister.

The Brazilian ambassador to Argentina was summoned and met with Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira. This meeting was considered a significant gesture by members of the Brazilian government, intended to convey messages to the neighboring country. While diplomats, speaking on condition of anonymity, have not ruled out further measures in response to Milei's remarks, the current stance remains one of careful deliberation.

Brazil has previously severed diplomatic ties with Venezuela under Nicolás Maduro's regime and with Israel after Lula was declared "persona non grata" by Benjamin Netanyahu's government. However, the current assessment within the Lula administration is that Milei's actions are comparable to his past behavior towards Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, whom he also criticized. Despite this comparison, the Brazilian government acknowledges that such attacks cannot be normalized, leading to a further deterioration of the relationship.