Brazil Senator Bolsonaro Leaves for US After Refusing Passport Order

Brazilian Senator Flavio Bolsonaro left for the United States after refusing to surrender his passport as ordered by the Supreme Court following his defeat in the October 25 presidential election, according to two sources. The senator, who lost to leftist Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, was ordered to hand over his passport within 24 hours over a money laundering investigation, which he denies. His passport has now been canceled, and his Senate immunity expires in February. His departure could deepen tensions between Brazil and the U.S., as President Lula has accused Washington of colluding with the Bolsonaro family to regain power. It remains unclear if Flavio will seek asylum.