New York
Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has firmly declared that the country’s democracy and sovereignty are “non-negotiable,” while rejecting Washington’s recent decision to impose 50 per cent tariffs on Brazilian goods.
In an opinion piece for The New York Times, Lula said Brazil is open to negotiations that bring mutual benefits but stressed that democratic institutions and national independence cannot be compromised. He criticised the tariff move as “misguided” and “illogical,” noting the United States has enjoyed a $410 billion trade surplus with Brazil over the past 15 years, with most US exports entering duty-free.
Lula accused Washington of using tariffs and the Global Magnitsky Act for political reasons, alleging attempts to shield former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, recently sentenced to over 27 years for attempting a coup. He argued such actions lack an “economic rationale.”
On digital issues, Lula defended Brazil’s regulations, explaining that rules apply equally to all platforms to combat fraud, disinformation, and hate speech. He highlighted the PIX instant payment system as a tool for financial inclusion.
Addressing US concerns on environmental enforcement, Lula underlined progress in cutting Amazon deforestation by half over two years.
While rejecting unilateral pressure, Lula emphasised cooperation where interests align. “There are no ideological differences that should prevent two governments from working together,” he wrote, adding Brazil and the US can respect each other while advancing shared goals.
His remarks come amid heightened trade tensions, testing the balance between economic ties and political disputes.
