Sources at the Planalto Palace confirmed that the executive branch is studying the most appropriate response to Washington’s decision—viewed in Brazil as a political escalation within a bilateral relationship already strained by recent trade and diplomatic disputes.

  According to reports by CNN Brasil and G1, the principle of reciprocity is guiding government discussions as officials analyze whether to respond with equivalent visa restrictions or another measure of similar diplomatic weight.

  On July 24, the Brazilian Foreign Ministry denied entry to two officials linked to the State Department—led by Marco Rubio—who, according to the Planalto Palace, planned to question the integrity of the Brazilian electoral system in “an unacceptable attempt to interfere in the national political process.”

  Washington cited that incident as one of the justifications for the measure taken against Viotti; however, according to CNN Brasil, the Lula administration notes that at least 16 visas held by Brazilian officials from the executive and judicial branches have been cancelled.

  Another argument raised by the US government was Brazil’s delay in granting diplomatic approval (*agrément*) for Daniel Pérez—nominated in July as the US ambassador to Brasilia—a decision for which, the Planalto Palace noted, there is no fixed deadline for a response.

  The broadcaster indicated that, in light of the Trump administration’s escalation, the Brazilian executive has also closed the door on the possibility of granting that diplomatic approval.

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