Flávio Bolsonaro, a senior Bolsonaro ally, is on his way to the U.S. after losing Brazil's presidential election. Reports indicate he is en route to the U.S. and may seek political asylum. The departure follows a 24-hour deadline to surrender his passports amid a money laundering investigation.
Bolsonaro's departure is confirmed by multiple sources, including Argentina's government, which reported he and his family crossed into the country and boarded a private flight to Ecuador. The U.S. State Department has informed the Bolsonaro family that they will be granted visas to enter the U.S. The move has raised concerns about a potential rift between Brazil and the U.S.
Lula's office has condemned Bolsonaro's apparent decision to flee, calling it 'shameful.' The incident has intensified tensions between Brazil and the U.S., with Lula's government accusing Washington of colluding with the Bolsonaros to restore them to power. The situation underscores the political and legal complexities surrounding Bolsonaro's potential exile.
Bolsonaro's family members have expressed support for his decision to leave Brazil, with Eduardo Bolsonaro, his brother, stating that an election loss would require a move. However, Bolsonaro has yet to officially concede defeat, and his Liberal Party has acknowledged Lula's victory.