Lula's government ignores Bolsonaro's US flight to avoid diplomatic clash

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva's government has decided not to officially respond to Senator Flávio Bolsonaro's flight to the United States, avoiding an escalation of diplomatic tension. The trip was allegedly aided by members of the Trump and Milei administrations. The government's strategy is to wait for the U.S. midterm elections on November 3rd before recalibrating its position, viewing the vote as a potential turning point. Lula's allies believe Bolsonaro lost political capital by leaving the country, especially after his party recognized Lula's victory. The episode parallels the 2025 tariff dispute, but Lula now has broader political support, reducing Trump's room to challenge the election result. Relations with Argentina remain strained following Milei's insults toward Lula, and the foreign minister may seek explanations during a G20 meeting.