U.S. revokes visa of Brazil's ambassador to Washington in reciprocity move
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The U.S. State Department revoked the visa of Brazilian Ambassador to Washington Maria Luiza Ribeiro Viotti, citing reciprocity after Brazil denied visas to two American diplomats and delayed confirmation of the U.S. ambassador to Brasilia. Officials said the move can be quickly reversed if Brazil takes appropriate steps, and Viotti is not being deported.
The Visa Dispute
In July, Brazil denied visas to Riley Barnes, the U.S. Assistant Secretary for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor, and a senior aide after reports suggested they planned to criticize President Lula or the electoral process. Brazil also stalled the confirmation of Danny Perez, President Trump's nominee for ambassador, until after the October 4 general elections. The U.S. State Department called those allegations baseless, describing the visit as routine and focused on election integrity, religious freedom, and freedom of expression.
U.S. Retaliation
The State Department revoked Viotti's visa under the principle of reciprocity. Officials told the Associated Press that the decision was delayed several times to give Lula an opportunity to act, but was ultimately enforced this week. They stressed that if Brazil approves Perez's nomination, the measure could be swiftly undone. Despite the visa cancellation, Viotti has not been asked to leave the United States, underscoring the calibrated nature of the response.
What's Next
The standoff now hinges on Brazil's October 4 election, with Lula's government likely unwilling to cede any ground beforehand. It remains unclear whether the U.S. will escalate further if Brazil continues to delay the ambassador's confirmation.
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U.S. revokes visa of Brazil's ambassador to Washington in reciprocity move
