Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva slammed President Donald Trump’s threat to impose 50% tariffs on Brazilian goods, calling it “very unpleasant” and a break from diplomatic norms. “He was elected to lead the U.S., not to be emperor of the world,” Lula told CNN on Thursday.
Trump linked the tariffs to the trial of former Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro, his ally, who faces coup-related charges. Lula pushed back, saying Brazil’s judiciary is independent and not subject to political influence.
Um techo da entrevista de @LulaOficial com Amanpour.
— Bruno Brezenski (@bbbrezenski) July 17, 2025
"Ele foi eleito para governar os EUA, não para ser o imperador do mundo"
Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva https://t.co/4IQnG199c2 pic.twitter.com/0xJJ6qZGIv
In response, Brazil vowed to impose reciprocal tariffs if Trump follows through. Despite tensions, Lula left the door open for negotiation, urging Trump to “seriously” pursue talks.
Meanwhile, the U.S. launched a trade investigation into Brazil, targeting digital commerce, ethanol access, and anti-corruption enforcement. With a $6.8 billion U.S. trade surplus at stake, a tariff war could impact key U.S. industries including aerospace and machinery.
