State Department revokes visa of Brazil's ambassador to the U.S.

The United States State Department has revoked the visa of Brazil's ambassador to the U.S., Maria Luiza Ribeiro Viotti, escalating a diplomatic dispute between Washington and Brasília. A senior department official stated that the visa would be reinstated immediately if Brazil grants diplomatic approval, known as agrément, for President Trump's nominee for U.S. ambassador to Brazil, Daniel Perez.

“

They have not only delayed, but put out signals that they will probably delay until after their election there, which is a long time coming.

Brazil has so far withheld approval for Perez, who is the Republican speaker of the Florida House of Representatives and an ally of Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The official indicated that Brazil's delay, potentially until after its upcoming election, is part of broader diplomatic disagreements over the past year. Washington expects a "prompt and positive answer" regarding the ambassadorial request.

“

the government of Brazil owes us a prompt and positive answer.

This visa dispute follows Brazil's earlier decision in July to deny visas to two U.S. State Department officials, whom Brazil accused of attempting to interfere in its elections by questioning the voting system's integrity. The State Department has refuted these claims, calling the planned visit routine. The situation is further complicated by ongoing tensions, including the U.S. imposition of 25% tariffs on Brazilian imports last month, citing unfair trade practices. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has condemned the tariffs, denying the allegations and stating there is no justification for unilateral measures against his country.

“

There is no justification for unilateral measures against our country.