Trump’s Call with Brazilian President Lula
President Donald Trump described his phone call with Brazilian President Luis Inacio Lula da Silva as “very good.” This marked the first significant discussion since tensions flared over U.S. tariffs and the prosecution of former President Jair Bolsonaro.
In a message shared on Truth Social, Trump mentioned, “We will have further discussion and gather in both Brazil and the U.S. in the not too distant future.” He added that the conversation was enjoyable and optimistic about future cooperation between the two nations.
The relationship between the U.S. and Brazil has become quite complicated, especially with Trump’s return to the presidency. His administration has often disagreed with Lula’s left-leaning government regarding issues like trade, energy policy, and Bolsonaro’s treatment. Notably, Bolsonaro has been a strong supporter of Trump, even adopting many of his political strategies.
Earlier this year, Trump enacted a hefty 40% tariff on Brazilian exports to the U.S., which significantly impacted Brazil’s economy—affecting vital sectors such as oil, soybeans, sugar, coffee, and steel. Additionally, Brazil ranks as the third-largest supplier of meat to the U.S., trailing only Australia and Canada. If the tariffs continue, this trade flow might take a hit.
The tariffs were introduced along with sanctions on several Brazilian officials, and Trump’s aides framed the measures as a response to what they termed “judicial persecution” of Bolsonaro. The former Brazilian president was recently convicted related to his involvement in the insurrection against Lula and received a lengthy prison sentence, a situation that has deepened divisions in Brazil and garnered scrutiny from right-wing populists worldwide.
Trump and his team often liken Bolsonaro’s legal troubles to what they see as politically motivated actions against Trump after the January 6 Capitol riots. In a letter to Brazil announcing the tariffs, Trump stated, “Brazil’s treatment of Bolsonaro, a leader who was highly respected around the world during his term, is an international shame, including in the United States.”
Moreover, he asserted, “This trial should not be held. Witch hunts should be stopped immediately.”
In addition to the tariffs, Trump instructed U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer to initiate an investigation regarding what his administration views as “unfair and discriminatory conduct” from the Brazilian government—usually a precursor to increased tariffs and broader economic sanctions.
Last month, at the U.N. General Assembly in New York, Trump and Lula briefly interacted, sharing a warm handshake and conversing. Trump humorously remarked, “We had a great compatibility for at least 39 seconds,” implying this might be a starting point for renewed dialogue between the two influential democracies in the hemisphere.
