Javier Milei's statements against Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva escalated into a diplomatic crisis between Argentina and Brazil. The Brazilian government recalled its ambassador in Buenos Aires for consultations and sought explanations from the Argentine representative.
The Argentine president described Lula as a “thief” and “convict” during the launch event for Senator Flávio Bolsonaro's presidential candidacy. The tension prompted Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira to meet with Argentine Ambassador Daniel Raimondi and to recall Ambassador Julio Bitelli to Brasilia.
Brazilian Vice President Geraldo Alckmin called the insults “lamentable” and an “absolutely rude” attitude. Argentina's opposition brought the conflict to Congress and is considering summoning Foreign Minister Pablo Quirno.
The Argentine government ruled out additional diplomatic measures in response. Presidential spokesperson Adrián Ravier stated that the differences are “ideological and political” and that Argentina does not intend to transfer them to the diplomatic level.
