Brazil votes in pivotal presidential runoff amid regional tensions

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Flávio Bolsonaro reportedly led the first round with about 47%, narrowly missing the majority needed to avoid a runoff, while Lula seeks another term in a highly consequential contest. The election is unfolding alongside heightened global tensions, including warnings of possible U.S. military action against Iran, reported Houthi attacks on Saudi targets, unrest across France and other European cities, and continued Russian strikes on Ukraine. The Brazilian vote stands out as the most consequential event because it may determine the direction of Latin America’s largest democracy and influence regional diplomacy, economic policy, and relations with Washington and other major powers.

Sources: Reuters, BBC News, Associated Press, Anadolu Agency