US and Australia suspend diplomatic operations in Brazil ahead of election amid security and interference disputes
The United States suspended consular services in Brazil, prompting Australia to close its embassy, two days before the presidential election. While Washington cited unspecified security concerns, Brazilian authorities and Lula’s allies alleged a coordinated psychological operation to influence the vote. Federal police conducted preventive searches but found no evidence of a direct threat, while intelligence agencies warned of a 'hybrid war' aimed at suppressing turnout.