Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has sharply criticized U.S. President Donald Trump, stating that Trump was “not elected to be emperor of the world.”
Lula’s remarks came after the U.S. imposed a 50% tariff on Brazilian imports, which he described as “unacceptable blackmail.”
The Brazilian leader emphasized that no foreign country, including the U.S., would dictate orders to Brazil, reaffirming his nation’s sovereignty.
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Lula also defended his judicial system against Trump’s recent comments about the legal proceedings against former President Jair Bolsonaro.
Trump had labeled the legal actions against Bolsonaro a “witch hunt” and called for the trial to be stopped, which Lula dismissed as interference in Brazil’s internal affairs.
In a televised address, Lula suggested that the U.S. tariff was a form of political pressure, indicating the possibility of retaliatory actions.
The tense exchange has brought the relationship between the two countries to the forefront of international discussions.
Analysts believe that Lula’s firm stance against Trump is both a response to international pressure and a strategic move to bolster his position ahead of the 2026 presidential elections.
As both leaders stand firm in their positions, the global community is closely monitoring how these tensions will affect international relations.