The United States has revoked the visa of Brazil’s Ambassador to Washington in retaliation for the delay in approving the appointment of the U.S. ambassador to Brazil and the refusal to issue visas to two American diplomats.
The U.S. administration revoked the visa of Brazil’s Ambassador to Washington, Maria Luiza Ribeiro Viotti, in response to the ongoing diplomatic visa dispute and the delay in the approval of the U.S. ambassadorial nomination.
In a statement, the U.S. Department of State said the decision was made under the principle of reciprocity after Brazil declined to issue visas to two American diplomats last month and postponed the confirmation process for U.S. President Donald Trump’s nominee for ambassador to Brasília.
Officials from the State Department told the Associated Press (AP) that the Biden administration had given the Brazilian government multiple opportunities to resolve the matter and delayed taking action several times. However, after Brazil failed to take the expected steps, Washington proceeded with the visa revocation.
The officials added that the decision could be reversed quickly if Brazil accepts President Trump’s ambassadorial nominee and takes appropriate diplomatic measures. They also clarified that despite the visa cancellation, Ambassador Viotti has not been expelled from the United States.
What Happened?
Tensions between the two countries escalated after the Brazilian government decided to postpone the confirmation process for President Trump’s ambassadorial nominee, Danny Perez, until after the October 4 elections.
In addition, Brazil denied visa requests from Riley Barnes, a U.S. State Department official, and Barnes’ deputy after reports suggested they might criticize President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva or comment on Brazil’s electoral process during their visit.
The U.S. rejected those claims, stating that the planned July 27–30 visit was routine and that allegations of an attempt to interfere with or sabotage Brazil’s elections were unfounded.