Brazil Expels Nicaragua's Ambassador Amid Tensions

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has expelled Nicaragua's ambassador in Brasilia, Patricia Castro Matus, in retaliation for the expulsion of Brazilian Ambassador Breno de Souza da Costa by Nicaragua's Daniel Ortega. This diplomatic fallout highlights the deteriorating relations between Brazil and Nicaragua, exacerbated by differing views on Venezuela's contested elections and Ortega's harsh treatment of dissent. The tensions escalated after Costa did not attend a key celebration of the Sandinista Revolution, which was perceived as an insult by the Nicaraguan government. Lula's attempts to mediate the release of jailed bishop Rolando Alvarez, at the request of Pope Francis, have further strained relations. The situation reflects a significant shift in the historically friendly ties between Lula and Ortega, with both governments now resorting to expulsions. As a result, Brazil's foreign ministry has downgraded its diplomatic engagement with Nicaragua to minimal levels.