Brasília, Brazil - The Brazilian government has refused visas to two senior United States State Department officials amid concerns they intended to interfere in the country's upcoming presidential election campaign.

According to Brazilian authorities, the officials were expected to travel to Brasília ahead of the official election campaign period.

The EU–Mercosur trade deal represents a fundamental threat to European farmers, food standards, and democratic accountability. By opening EU markets to agricultural imports produced under weaker environmental and welfare rules, the agreement creates an uneven playing field that places family farms at risk. The decision to refer the deal to the European Court is a necessary step in challenging a trade policy that many believe sacrifices rural communities and food security in favour of multinational interests.

Aaron Joyce, Newswire, L.T.T Media; January 21, 2026