In a surprising move that has stirred diplomatic tensions, Brazil’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has recalled its ambassador to Argentina following inflammatory remarks made by Argentine President Javier Milei. These remarks were directed at Brazilian leaders during Milei’s recent visit to Sao Paulo.
Javier Milei’s visit to Brazil coincided with an event in Sao Paulo where Brazilian Senator Flávio Bolsonaro, son of former President Jair Bolsonaro, was officially announced as the presidential candidate for his father’s political party. During his speech, Milei launched a scathing attack on Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, labeling him a “thief” and a “delinquent.” He also targeted Supreme Federal Court Minister Alexandre de Moraes, calling him “trash” after being denied a visit to Jair Bolsonaro, who is serving a 27-year sentence under house arrest for his involvement in an attempted coup. Read more here.
Edson Fachin, President of the Supreme Federal Court, criticized Milei’s comments as a “disrespectful reference to a magistrate of the highest court in the country, made on Brazilian soil.”
In response to Milei’s remarks, a spokesperson for Brazil’s foreign ministry confirmed that Ambassador Julio Bitelli was brought back for consultations. The diplomatic fallout continued as former Argentine President Alberto Fernández shared a video on X, criticizing Milei’s behavior, stating, “Milei went to Brazil shouting like a madman, demanding to see a coup plotter in jail. Insulting the president of a sister nation and our main trading partner is unforgivable.”
Meanwhile, Buenos Aires Governor Axel Kicillof reached out to Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira to distance the Argentine populace from Milei’s statements. Kicillof expressed “profound shame as President Milei offended and insulted the Brazilian government, its president, and the entire country.” He emphasized the importance of Argentina’s relationship with Brazil, warning that Milei’s outbursts could threaten economic ties, including investments and jobs.
Brazilian President Lula has not commented directly on Milei’s remarks. However, in a recent opinion piece for The Washington Post, he highlighted Brazil’s sovereignty, stating, “Brazil’s destiny is determined only by Brazilians without external interference, without subservience.” The piece was published amid Brazil’s decision to deny visas to two U.S. State Department officials, with no further explanation provided by the foreign ministry. Read more here.
The diplomatic spat unfolds as Lula prepares for reelection, facing opposition from Sen. Flávio Bolsonaro, whose family maintains strong connections with the Trump administration. Read more here.
