BRASILIA, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Flavio Dino criticized the U.S. embassy here for saying it would "monitor" the work of a judge.
His remarks referred to a statement of the U.S. Embassy in Brasilia warning allies of Justice Alexandre de Moraes -- sanctioned under the U.S. Magnitsky Act in July -- against supporting his actions, adding, "We are monitoring the situation closely."
"I recall that, under international law, it is not among the duties of any foreign embassy to 'warn' or 'monitor' what a justice of the Supreme Federal Court, or any other Brazilian court, should do," Dino wrote on Facebook.
Moraes was sanctioned by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio for alleged abuse of authority, suppressing free speech, and human rights abuses. The justice is overseeing the criminal case of former Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro, who has been charged with scheming to overthrow Brazil's 2022 elections.
"Respect for national sovereignty, moderation, common sense, and good manners are essential in diplomacy. I hope dialogue and friendly relations between nations that have long been partners in trade, culture, and institutions will prevail again. That is best for all," he added.
Brazil's Foreign Ministry summoned U.S. Charge d'Affaires Gabriel Escobar to lodge a formal protest and requested an explanation. ■