Brazil Downgrades Diplomatic Ties with Argentina Following Repeated Insults from President Javier Milei
The Brazilian government announced on Tuesday that it is reducing its diplomatic presence in Argentina to the level of chargé d'affaires. This move follows a series of aggressive remarks by Argentine President Javier Milei, who has repeatedly called Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva a "thief" and "corrupt." Brazil recalled its ambassador, Julio Bitelli, for consultations over Milei's insults, which also targeted a Brazilian Supreme Court justice. The Brazilian government stated that the downgrade remains in effect as long as Milei's attacks on Brazilian democratic institutions persist. While Argentina downplayed the feud as a matter of ideological differences, the administration of President Trump and President Milei are close allies. Simultaneously, relations with the United States have also faced friction. President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva criticized the administration of President Trump for being "irresponsible" and "ill-advised" after Washington revoked the Brazil ambassador's visa. Lula stated that Brazil is prioritizing national sovereignty and will confront any outside interference in its upcoming election.