Trump, Rubio and the Bolsonaros trash Brazil-US relations

The relationship between the United States and Brazil has entered a new and troubling phase, according to the article, primarily due to the actions of Donald Trump, Marco Rubio, and the Bolsonaros. The author contends that these political figures have transformed bilateral relations into a campaign platform, a stark departure from historical diplomatic norms. Unlike past instances of friction, where leaders engaged with a degree of decorum, the current approach is characterized by politicization and public posturing.

The article draws a parallel to historical diplomatic challenges, noting that even during periods of significant disagreement, such as the 1970s concerning human rights and a nuclear agreement, leaders like Ernesto Geisel and Jimmy Carter avoided personal insults. When the U.S. imposed tariffs on Brazilian goods, Geisel's response was measured, refusing a U.S. invitation. This contrasts sharply with the current environment where political figures leverage international relations for domestic political gain, turning serious diplomatic matters into "palanque" or campaign rally topics.

To illustrate the gravity of past U.S. involvement and the potential for intervention, the article recounts a specific historical event from March 1964. Amidst political polarization in Brazil, U.S. officials, including President Lyndon Johnson, Secretary of State Dean Rusk, and CIA Director John McCone, discussed a potential naval deployment to the Brazilian coast. This was in response to concerns about potential refinery strikes and a request from businessman Alberto Byington. Although the fleet was ultimately mobilized and then demobilized without direct intervention, the event underscores a historical willingness by the U.S. to engage militarily in Brazil's internal affairs under certain circumstances.

The narrative also briefly mentions other figures and events, including Alberto Byington's unsuccessful political candidacy and his familial connections, as well as a seemingly unrelated complaint from a "Sindicato dos Bandidos Autônomos do Brasil" regarding unfair competition. These additions, while disparate, contribute to a broader commentary on political and social dynamics within Brazil, framed against the backdrop of its complex relationship with the United States.