Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva recently connected with US President Donald Trump, signaling a shift towards improved ties despite significant disagreements. Following their 50-minute phone call, Lula has agreed to visit Washington soon, cementing a new phase of diplomatic engagement after months of past animosity.
Their wide-ranging discussion touched on critical global matters. A major point of contention was the situation in Venezuela. Lula firmly criticized the US actions regarding the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, labeling it an “unacceptable line” that jeopardizes regional stability. He stressed the urgent need to preserve peace and ensure the welfare of the Venezuelan people.
Another key topic was Trump’s proposed “Board of Peace” for Gaza. Lula voiced strong concerns, urging that the initiative remain strictly focused on Gaza and include a seat for Palestine. He cautioned against it becoming a rival to the United Nations, a sentiment echoed by other traditional US allies. Lula also used the opportunity to advocate for comprehensive UN reform, including expanding the permanent members of its Security Council.
Despite these differing views, the improved relationship has yielded tangible benefits, with the US exempting key Brazilian exports from tariffs and lifting sanctions on a prominent Brazilian judge. As Lula prepares for his US visit, following trips to India and South Korea, he continues his active global diplomacy, having also recently spoken with leaders like Russia’s Vladimir Putin and China’s Xi Jinping. This new chapter between Brazil and the US highlights a complex interplay of cooperation and principled dissent on the world stage.
Source: https://turks.us/lula-trump-discuss-board-of-peace-agree-to-meet-in-washington-brazil/
