US and Australia Suspend Diplomatic Operations in Brazil Ahead of High-Stakes Presidential Election

The United States has suspended consular services in Brazil, prompting Australia to close its embassy in the Brazilian capital just two days before Sunday's presidential election.

In a Thursday statement, the US embassy announced the suspension of consular services starting Friday, advising American citizens to avoid visiting diplomatic facilities due to unspecified security concerns. The US State Department noted it is collaborating with Brazilian counterparts, while Australian Ambassador to Canada—Sophie Davies—confirmed the Australian embassy would also close in response to the US alert.

Brazil's federal police executed preventive search and seizure warrants in Sao Paulo and the Federal District following cooperation with foreign intelligence agencies. Investigators stated they found no evidence corroborating the reported threat or any suspects tied to criminal organizations, though the investigation continues after seizing communications equipment.

The closures arrive amid a tense election featuring incumbent Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva against Senator Flavio Bolsonaro, son of former President Jair Bolsonaro. Allies of Lula condemned the closures as unprecedented foreign interference, while US President Donald Trump has closely monitored the race.