Brazil delays US ambassador approval until October election

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said Friday he will decide whether to approve the new US ambassador-designate to Brazil only after October's presidential election.

In an interview with local media, Lula questioned the US announcement of Daniel Perez as its future ambassador without Brazil's formal approval.

"They want me to accept their ambassador in a hurry.

But now, only after the elections," Lula said.

The remarks come amid growing friction between Brasilia and Washington, marked by accusations from the Brazilian government of attempted interference in domestic affairs and Lula's criticism of what he sees as support from some US officials for his main rival, Senator Flavio Bolsonaro, in October's election.

Despite the tensions, Lula reiterated that Brazil remains interested in maintaining a constructive relationship with the United States and said he is not seeking confrontation.

Last month, Brazil denied visas to two US State Department officials, saying their planned visit could undermine electoral integrity.