UN Assembly: Lula Warns of Global Threats and Condemns Governance Issues
Brazil’s president, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, opened the UN General Assembly’s annual “high-level debate” on Tuesday, expressing concerns about the unprecedented threats facing international alliances. While not naming anyone directly, he criticized Donald Trump’s approach to foreign policy.
Lula’s address spoke about “attacks on sovereignty, arbitrary sanctions, and unilateral intervention,” which many interpret as pointed references to the previous U.S. administration. He also highlighted Brazil’s judicial system, particularly praising Alexandre de Moraes, who has been involved in significant legal actions in Brazil.
He took a moment to celebrate the conviction of former President Jair Bolsonaro on vague accusations of attempting a coup, mentioning the lengthy prison sentence he now faces. Lula portrayed Brazil as a model for democracy, emphasizing the importance of upholding democratic values.
“The former head of state was convicted of attacking the democratic rule of law,” he said, referring to Bolsonaro. “He was investigated and held accountable through a necessary legal process.”
Lula continued, “He had the right to defend himself but chose to dismiss the rights of victims. This was a clear message to any aspiring dictators: Brazil’s democracy and sovereignty are not up for negotiation.”
At 79, Lula, now in his third term, has openly challenged conservative viewpoints, especially those opposing Bolsonaro. Allegations against Bolsonaro include “crimes against democracy,” particularly linked to events that occurred while he was in the U.S. The court did not present concrete evidence of Bolsonaro’s wrongdoing but highlighted his public skepticism about election integrity. Notably, Brazil’s Electoral Court barred media and Bolsonaro’s campaign from labeling Lula as a criminal, while Lula made disparaging remarks about Bolsonaro.
Bolsonaro, currently facing a 27-year prison sentence, has been embroiled in numerous allegations, including counterfeiting vaccination cards and other dubious activities.
During his speech, Lula remarked on the silence among conservatives, arguing, “Authoritarianism grows when we fail to respond to arbitrary actions. The international community must stand firm in defending peace and the rule of law, as the repercussions can be devastating globally.”
He stated, “Anti-democratic movements are infiltrating institutions, vilifying freedom while glorifying violence. Even amidst intense pressure, Brazil remains resolute in defending its democratic values.”
In response to previous actions taken against Brazil under the Trump administration, which labeled the country a “national security threat” and imposed tariffs, Lula expressed his disapproval of such unilateral measures. He firmly stated, “There’s no justification for arbitrary sanctions. Attacks on our judicial independence are simply unacceptable.”
Lula didn’t address Trump explicitly but emphasized that the World Trade Organization should revisit its framework in the context of one-sided actions impacting the global economy.
He further extended his defense to countries like Venezuela and Cuba, criticizing the narrative that conflates crime with terrorism. He urged a collaborative approach to tackling drug trafficking, suggesting that excessive force leads to unjust outcomes.
Lula concluded by asserting that dialogue must remain open for countries like Venezuela, which deserves a future free from violence, and denounced Cuba’s designation as a state sponsor of terrorism.
