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Milei's insult of Lula da Silva triggers Argentina-Brazil diplomatic crisis

Brazil recalled its ambassador to Buenos Aires and demanded an explanation after Argentina's president Javier Milei called Lula da Silva a 'thief' at an event backing Flavio Bolsonaro's campaign. The remarks were made in Sao Paulo, deepening months of friction between the two governments. Brazilian officials called the comments unacceptable between neighboring heads of state.

Government palace with flags in South America
Government palace with flags in South AmericaPhoto: Nikolai Kolosov / Pexels
Buenos Aires Herald48 min ago

Brazil recalled its ambassador to Buenos Aires after Argentine President Javier Milei called Lula da Silva a 'thief' and a 'convict' at a Sao Paulo event backing Flavio Bolsonaro's presidential campaign launch. Milei attended to show support for Bolsonaro's bid.

Brazil's foreign ministry described the remarks as 'unacceptable' between neighboring heads of state and demanded a formal explanation. Lula's party has also called for an investigation into Milei's trip to Brazil.

The crisis marks the latest chapter in months of friction between the two governments. Milei has repeatedly criticized Lula's administration in the past, while Brazilian officials have suggested the Argentine leader is interfering in domestic politics. It remains unclear how the diplomatic rupture will affect regional trade ties.

GeopoliticsTradeSouth AmericaBuenos Aires Herald
This article is an AI-curated summary of the original story published by Buenos Aires Herald. The illustration is a stock photo by Nikolai Kolosov from Pexels and is not from the original story.

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