Tensions between Brazil and the United States continue to rise after President Donald Trump imposed a steep 50% tariff on Brazilian goods. In response, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has rejected Trump’s offer to discuss the issue directly, saying instead that he will turn to other global leaders, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Speaking at an event in Brasília on Tuesday, Lula said, “I will not call Trump because he does not want to talk.” He added, “I will call Xi Jinping, I will call Prime Minister Modi. I won’t call Putin, because he can’t travel now. But I will call many Presidents.”

Brazil to Defend Itself Through WTO

Lula called the tariff imposition “one of the most regrettable moments” in Brazil-U.S. relations and confirmed that Brazil would take the matter to the World Trade Organisation (WTO). He emphasized that the government is already exploring ways to strengthen ties with other global partners, particularly BRICS nations.

“In 2025, we will resort to all possible measures, starting with the WTO, to defend our interests,” Lula said, reaffirming Brazil’s commitment to national sovereignty and fair trade.

Trump’s Tariff Move Sparks Global Reactions

President Trump has justified the tariffs as a response to what he describes as a “witch hunt” against Brazil’s former president Jair Bolsonaro, who is currently facing trial over alleged coup attempts after the 2022 election. Trump has accused the current Brazilian leadership of targeting Bolsonaro and warned of further tariffs on countries supporting BRICS policies.

India, China, and Russia—all members of BRICS—are being watched closely by the U.S., which views the bloc as a threat to the dominance of the U.S. dollar in global trade.

Despite the diplomatic rift, Lula confirmed that he still plans to invite Trump to COP30, the upcoming UN climate summit to be held in November in Belem, Para. “I will be kind enough to call him,” he said. “If he doesn’t attend, it’s because he doesn’t want to — but it won’t be for lack of education, friendliness, or democracy.”

Room for Dialogue, But on Equal Terms

Lula also reiterated that Brazil is open to negotiating with the U.S., but insisted that any talks must be held “on equal terms” and with “mutual respect.”

In Washington, President Trump had earlier told reporters that Lula could call him “anytime” to discuss trade issues. “I like the Brazilian people, but the people running Brazil did the wrong thing,” he said.

Responding to Trump’s comment, Brazil’s Finance Minister Fernando Haddad said he appreciated the tone and was confident Lula would be open to a conversation—if approached respectfully.

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