The United States announced on Friday that it would suspend all consular services in Brazil, citing heightened security risks as the country heads toward a tightly contested presidential election on Sunday.

American officials said the decision follows a spate of violent incidents targeting political rallies and public spaces, prompting concerns for the safety of embassy staff and visa applicants.

"The safety of our personnel and the public must be paramount," the US State Department said in a statement.

Brazil’s two leading candidates – incumbent President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and former congressman Flávio Bolsonaro, son of former president Jair Bolsonaro – have ramped up attacks on each other, each accusing the other of undermining democracy.

Election fever fuels street clashes

In the weeks leading up to the vote, supporters of both camps have staged large rallies that have sometimes turned violent. Police in São Paulo reported stone‑throwing and tear‑gas use after a Lula rally was disrupted by Bolsonaro supporters on Tuesday.

In Rio de Janeiro, a Bolsonaro‑aligned motorcade was halted by counter‑protesters, resulting in clashes that left several injured, according to local media.

Security analysts warn that the intensity of the confrontation exceeds that of the 2022 election, when Lula returned to power after a bitter run‑off.

US and allies pull back diplomatic services

Washington’s move mirrors a similar suspension of consular operations by Australia, announced on Friday after its diplomats received threats linked to the election climate.

The US embassy in Brasília confirmed that visa processing, passport renewals and emergency assistance for American citizens would be halted until further notice.

"We are closely monitoring the situation and will reassess when conditions improve," the embassy added.

Implications for Brazil’s international ties

Brazil is a key partner for the United States in South America, cooperating on trade, Amazon‑deforestation initiatives and regional security. The suspension could complicate travel for Brazilian students and professionals seeking US visas, as well as hinder American businesses operating in the country.

Brazilian foreign ministry spokesperson Ana Paula Ribeiro said the decision was "unfortunate" but urged the United States to maintain diplomatic dialogue.

Both Lula and Flávio Bolsonaro have pledged to restore normal diplomatic relations after the vote, though each has also warned the other of potential retaliation if the election outcome is contested.

What comes next

Brazil’s electoral authority has scheduled the first round for 2 October, with a possible runoff on 30 October if no candidate reaches the required 50 percent threshold.

International observers from the Organisation of American States are slated to monitor the vote, while security forces have deployed additional troops to major cities in an effort to prevent further unrest.

Analysts say the United States will likely review its consular suspension once the election concludes and a clear security picture emerges.