US condemns storming of government buildings by Bolsonaro backers

By Servet Gunerigok

WASHINGTON (AA) - The US on Sunday condemned the raids on three government buildings in Brazil by supporters of former President Jair Bolsonaro.

"We condemn the attacks on Brazil's Presidency, Congress, and Supreme Court today. Using violence to attack democratic institutions is always unacceptable," said Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Twitter.

"We join @lulaoficial in urging an immediate end to these actions," said Blinken, referring to President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who was inaugurated on Jan. 1 this year. Lula defeated Bolsonaro in October.

In addition, President Joe Biden is following the situation, according to his National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan.

"The United States condemns any effort to undermine democracy in Brazil. President Biden is following the situation closely and our support for Brazil’s democratic institutions is unwavering. Brazil’s democracy will not be shaken by violence," he tweeted.

Police intervened with tear gas to disperse pro-Bolsonaro protesters.

"The former president not only provoked that, but he's also encouraging other people to do that by social media," Lula said in a press conference, vowing that those responsible would be punished.