Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has accused the United States of attempting to stage a coup in Brazil and condemned its use of political pressure to impose economic sanctions. Lula warned that Brazil would not accept unequal treatment and is prepared to defend its national interests on the global stage.
Speaking at a Workers Party event in Brasília on Sunday, Lula called out Washington’s interference, referencing former President Jair Bolsonaro’s failed attempt to overturn the 2022 election results. He emphasized that the U.S. tactics were unacceptable, particularly regarding recent threats to impose a 50% tariff on Brazilian exports.
President Donald Trump linked the tariff threat to what he called a ‘witch hunt’ against the ‘highly respected’ Bolsonaro, who faces charges over his coup attempt. The U.S. has also sanctioned Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, who is overseeing Bolsonaro’s case.
Lula stressed that Brazil is no longer economically dependent on the US, citing expanded global trade ties and stronger domestic fundamentals. He also reaffirmed his push for an alternative to the US dollar in international commerce.