Brasilia (GNP): The United States and Australia have scaled back their diplomatic operations in Brazil, citing unspecified security concerns just ahead of Sunday’s presidential election.
The US suspended consular services at its embassy and consulates across Brazil on Friday. Australia then closed its embassy in Brasilia, saying it was acting after the American alert.
The State Department did not say when services would resume. It advised US citizens in need of emergency help not to go to the embassy, consulates or other diplomatic facilities. All staff at US diplomatic posts in Brazil were told to work remotely from Friday.
Australia’s ambassador, Sophie Davies, announced the closure on social media. She urged Australians to avoid US diplomatic sites in Brazil. Canberra directed its citizens to an emergency centre in the Australian capital.
Brazil’s Federal Police said it carried out two warrants, one in São Paulo and one near Brasilia. The searches were part of an investigation into alleged schemes that could endanger US diplomatic sites. The force added that the initial threats have not yet been confirmed with evidence.
The State Department said it is working closely with Brazilian counterparts on the security concerns. It noted that embassies routinely issue alerts about local threats, and it did not link the move to the election.
The timing has still sharpened political tensions. It comes at a delicate moment in US-Brazil relations. Brazilian intelligence officials recently briefed a French and German delegation on what they described as US and Russian interference ahead of the vote.
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Allies of President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva point to US tariffs as evidence of foreign meddling. They also cite a Washington effort to send officials to discuss “electoral integrity”. Brazil’s foreign ministry declined to comment.
The election also has a strong US link. Asked at the White House whether he would back Bolsonaro, President Donald Trump said Washington is watching the vote very closely. Jair Bolsonaro, a Trump ally, is serving a 27-year sentence for attempting a coup.
If no candidate wins more than 50 percent on Sunday, a runoff will be held on October 25. For now, Americans and Australians in Brazil are being told to use phone contact and emergency hotlines instead of walk-in help.
Managing Editor at Global News Pakistan (GNP), with a Bachelor's degree in International Relations from Riphah International University, graduated with a Gold Medal. Reach out at sabahtareengnp@gmail.com
