Brazilian Ambassador to US Continues Duties Following Visa Revocation

Brazil's ambassador to the United States, Maria Luiza Ribeiro Viotti, continues to perform her duties in Washington one month after the government of Donald Trump revoked her visa. While she remains in her role, she has reduced her public appearances. Sources from the Itamaraty state that this low profile is partly due to the Brazilian election period, during which diplomats typically avoid public events to prevent their activities from being seen as campaign participation. However, interlocutors note that Viotti has avoided some occasions she would normally attend.

The U.S. Department of State revoked Viotti's visa on August 4 during a dispute over the agrément, or official approval, for Daniel Perez, Trump's nominee for U.S. Ambassador to Brazil. Washington described the move as an act of reciprocity following Brazil's delay in accepting Perez and President Lula's decision to deny visas to two American officials. Because Viotti was not declared persona non grata, she can stay in the U.S. and work, but she would need a new visa to return if she leaves the country.

Diplomats describe the current situation as a waiting period. There is a perception that relations stopped deteriorating after Presidents Lula and Trump spoke by telephone. Despite this, caution remains due to the unpredictability of the Republican government and ongoing sanctions, such as tariffs.

Regarding Daniel Perez, the nominee took his oath in late August and is preparing to assume his mission, though he still awaits the agrément from Brazil. A U.S. Department of State spokesperson stated that procedures began on August 25 to ensure Perez is ready once the process is complete. Brazilian diplomats expect a decision after the elections and consider it likely that Perez will be accepted, viewing him as a potential bridge builder between the two capitals.