The escalation of tensions in Ukraine, which culminated in Vladimir Putin's decision to invade the country, has forced the Foreign Ministry to perform a rhetorical juggling act. It must show opposition to a violation of international law by Moscow without pointing the finger directly at Russia.
The Russians are considered strategic partners and are Brazil's partners in the BRICS (a group also formed by India, China and South Africa).
The attempt by Brazilian diplomacy to balance the position of the US and NATO allies and, on the other hand, that of Russia has been evident in the speeches of Brazil's ambassador to the UN, Ronaldo Costa Filho.
In his last speech, Costa Filho said that "the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity, sovereignty and political independence of a UN member is unacceptable."
Despite that, he did not directly mention the government of Russia and steered clear of the rhetoric of Americans and European allies who blame Putin for the biggest military threat on the European continent since World War II.
Translated by Kiratiana Freelon