Brazil's Lula Defends Sovereignty Against Trump's Tariff Threats

Lula's Strong Response to U.S. Tariff Announcement

Brasilia: On Thursday, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva firmly dismissed any notion of foreign oversight following U.S. President Donald Trump's declaration of a 50% tariff on Brazilian products.

Trump's announcement, made via social media, accused Brazil of undermining U.S. tech firms and conducting a 'witch hunt' against former President Jair Bolsonaro, who is currently facing legal challenges related to alleged attempts to overturn the 2022 election results.

In response to Trump's comments, Lula emphasized Brazil's sovereignty, stating, "Brazil is a sovereign nation with independent institutions and will not accept any form of tutelage. The judicial actions against those involved in the coup attempt are solely under Brazil's Judicial Branch and are not open to external interference or threats that could undermine our institutions."

Lula further asserted that Brazilian society stands against hateful content, racism, child exploitation, fraud, and any violations of human rights and democratic freedoms. He clarified that freedom of expression in Brazil does not equate to violent or aggressive behavior, and all companies, domestic or foreign, must adhere to Brazilian laws to operate in the country.

The President also refuted claims of a U.S. trade deficit with Brazil, stating that U.S. government data indicates a $410 billion surplus in trade over the last 15 years. He concluded by asserting that any unilateral tariff hikes would be addressed under Brazil's Economic Reciprocity Law, reinforcing Brazil's commitment to sovereignty and the interests of its people.

Lula's Message on Sovereignty

Tendo em vista a manifestação pública do presidente norte-americano Donald Trump apresentada em uma rede social, na tarde desta-quarta (9), é importante ressaltar:

O Brasil é um país soberano com instituições independentes que não aceitará ser tutelado por ninguém.

O processo…

— Lula (@LulaOficial) July 9, 2025