US President Donald Trump’s extensive use of social media has become a focal point for criticism, particularly from Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. In an interview with news site g1, Lula stated that Trump should prioritize governance over his frequent posts on Truth Social. With over 2,100 posts since his return to the White House, Trump’s online activity has drawn scrutiny, with Lula suggesting that this behavior is not aligned with effective leadership. The Brazilian leader argued that Trump’s attention to social media distractions detracts from essential national priorities such as free trade and international peace.
Lula’s comments come amid ongoing critiques of Trump’s leadership style, including his approach to international conflicts like the Israel-Iran crisis. The Brazilian leader expressed dismay that Trump, who is the head of a large country, needs to manage his statements carefully, a contrast to what Lula perceives as Trump’s tendency to prioritize media-driven content over statecraft. This critique was echoed earlier in an interview with The Atlantic, where Trump described his fast-paced Truth Social posts as a form of direct communication with the American public, which he claimed makes him ‘the most transparent president in history.’
Despite White House assurances that Trump’s online presence is a direct line to the American public, Lula’s criticism continues to gain traction in international political circles. Additionally, Lula has previously called out Trump for actions perceived as overreach, such as his stance on the Gaza conflict. Lula’s recent remarks reinforce his position that the US president should focus on domestic and international governance rather than social media engagement, highlighting a growing divide in leadership approaches between the two nations.