US, Australia Suspend Consular Services in Brazil Over Security Concerns
The U.S. Embassy and Australian Embassy in Brazil temporarily closed their consular services on Friday, citing security concerns just two days before the country's presidential election.
U.S. consular services and the Australian Embassy in Brazil have suspended operations due to security concerns, according to authorities from both nations. The closures occurred on Friday, two days before Brazil's presidential election.
Brazil's federal police also announced Friday that they had executed search and seizure warrants in Sao Paulo and the Federal District. These actions were part of an investigation into suspected plans that could threaten U.S. diplomatic facilities in Brazil. Police described the operation as preventive, stemming from ongoing cooperation with foreign intelligence agencies. Investigators reported finding no evidence to corroborate initial reported risks, nor had they identified any suspects involved in criminal organizations. The investigation is ongoing following the seizure of communication equipment.
The U.S. Embassy issued a security alert on Thursday stating that consular services at the embassy and consulates would be suspended starting Friday. The alert advised U.S. citizens seeking assistance to contact the appropriate duty officer and avoid visiting diplomatic facilities.
The Australian Embassy in Brasilia also announced its closure on Friday, referencing the U.S. alert and advising Australian citizens to avoid U.S. diplomatic facilities.
When asked about the suspension of consular services, the U.S. State Department stated that it was working closely with its Brazilian counterparts to address security concerns. The department also noted that U.S. embassies and consulates routinely issue alerts to U.S. citizens regarding local threats, events, and changes.
Brazilians are set to vote on Sunday in a closely contested presidential election. The leading candidates are incumbent Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Senator Flávio Bolsonaro, son of former President Jair Bolsonaro. If neither candidate secures more than 50% of the vote, a runoff election will be held on October 25.
U.S. President Donald Trump, when asked about the election at the White House, stated that the U.S. was monitoring the election closely. Bolsonaro is considered an ally of Trump.