Brazil's Lula Rejects Trump's Tariff Threats, Calls Them 'Blackmail'

Politics

Brazil's Lula Rejects Trump's Tariff Threats, Calls Them 'Blackmail'

4 months ago

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Brazil's Lula Rejects Trump's Tariff Threats, Calls Them 'Blackmail'

Credited from: REUTERS

Brazil's Lula refuses to accept U.S. tariffs, labeling them as 'unacceptable blackmail'.
The Brazilian president insists on national sovereignty and rejects outside interference.
Lula expresses willingness for dialogue despite escalating tensions with Trump.

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva firmly stated on Thursday that he will not take orders from a "gringo," referring to U.S. President Donald Trump, in response to Trump's announcement of a 50% tariff on Brazilian imports. Lula emphasized Brazil's sovereignty and expressed that the tariff, linked to the treatment of former President Jair Bolsonaro, was "unacceptable blackmail," according to Reuters and South China Morning Post.

Lula, addressing supporters in Goias, remarked, "No gringo is going to give orders to this president," reinforcing Brazil’s refusal to submit to what he termed “imperialist arrogance.” The president noted the need for negotiations, while Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira stated that Lula is open to talks with Trump despite escalating tensions, indicating that direct communication has yet to occur, according to India Times and AA.

Al Jazeera and Africanews.

In his critique, Lula also referred to Trump's demands on Brazilian courts as an outrage, asserting that Brazil prioritizes its interests and will pursue regulatory measures against U.S. tech companies that violate local laws. He declared, "Brazil will not accept anything imposed on it. We accept negotiation and not imposition," indicating a robust stance against coercive foreign policies, as reported by India Times and Reuters.