Brazil Downgrades Diplomatic Representation in Argentina After Milei’s Insults

Brazil announced that its embassy in Buenos Ayres will be headed only by a chargé d’affaires, recalling Ambassador Julio Bitelli for “consultations.” The decision follows Argentine President Javier Milei’s repeated accusations that Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva is a “thief” and a “convict.” Brazil’s foreign-office spokesperson said Bitelli will not return while Milei continues aggressive comments toward Lula. Argentina’s Foreign Minister Pablo Quirno stated that Buenos Aires will not take reciprocal diplomatic action.

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The two presidents have not met officially since Milei assumed office in December 2023. Milei first used the “thief” epithet in a televised interview on LN+ and repeated it at the July 25 party convention of Senator Flávio Bolsonaro, a rival of Lula in the October election. He also labeled Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes “trash” during the same event. Brazil’s earlier recall of its ambassador in July followed Milei’s initial remarks, leaving the embassy under a lower-rank chargé d’affaires.

Associated Press

• Brazil’s foreign-office spokesperson emphasized that the downgrade is a direct response to Milei’s “aggressive comments” and will remain in effect until they cease.

Associated Press

• Argentine Foreign Minister Pablo Quirno told a press conference on August 5 that Argentina will not pursue diplomatic retaliation.

Reuters

• Presidential spokesperson Adrian Ravier described the dispute as “ideological and political differences,” downplaying its significance for trade.

Euronews

• President Donald Trump.

Associated Press

• “He's a thief, he's corrupt, he's been convicted of theft and corruption, he's been in prison, so it's true that we can call him a convict,” — Javier Milei, argentine president

Euronews

• “Don't you think it's aggressive when someone steals from you? Calling a thief a 'thief' is far less serious than the act of stealing itself.” — Javier Milei, argentine president

Euronews