The U.S. State Department revoked the visa of Maria Luiza Ribeiro Viotti, Brazil’s ambassador to Washington, on Tuesday, a move that the Brazilian government says is an unjust decision. The revocation comes amid rising diplomatic tensions between Brasília and Washington.
According to The Hill News, the State Department’s action was taken amid broader strains between the two governments. In a statement, the office of Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da S Silva "repudiates" the decision, calling it unwarranted. Viotti, who has served as Brazil’s ambassador to the U.S. for several years, was the only foreign official whose visa was cancelled in this context. The Hill notes that the revocation is the first time a U.S. visa has been withdrawn from an ambassador in recent years, indicating a significant escalation.
The incident reflects growing diplomatic friction after Brazil’s president publicly criticized U.S. policies on trade and environmental issues. By suspending Viotti’s visa, the U.S. signals its displeasure, while Brazil’s response underscores a broader conflict over bilateral relations.