Brazil’s three major newspapers — Folha de S.Paulo, O Globo and O Estado de S.Paulo — called Bolsonaro’s declaration “coup-mongering.” The chief of the Brazilian electoral authority stated that the election proceeded in full compliance with the law and that the results were legitimate.

The U.S. had granted Bolsonaro and his family humanitarian visas. President Trump initially praised the Bolsonaro family and called the election “very strange,” but later declined to comment on Bolsonaro’s claim of legitimacy. Trump said he would not get involved in the post-election turmoil.

Bolsonaro alleged that the election was stolen by a “criminal organization” and that the Supreme Court was conducting a “witch hunt” against his family. He cited the extension of voting hours by a Lula-appointed justice as evidence of irregularities. Fewer than 35,000 votes, or some 0.03% of the total, were cast during the extra two hours, according to an analysis by Insper professor Pedro Burgos.

Lula called Bolsonaro’s flight “shameful,” saying, “A person who sneaks out of their country must have something to hide.” He accused the U.S. of colluding with the Bolsonaro family to restore them to power, a claim the U.S. has denied.

International observers confirmed the election was free and fair. Bolsonaro’s own party acknowledged Lula’s victory, despite his personal refusal to concede. The U.S. State Department has not responded to requests for comment on the situation.

Bolsonaro’s departure and his claims of illegitimacy could deepen the rift between the U.S. and Brazil.