Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has likened US President Donald Trump to an "emperor" who seeks to impose his will on the entire world. In a television interview with CNN Brazil on September 21, Lula stated that Trump exceeds the limits of his office by interfering in the affairs of other countries. Lula emphasized that Trump was elected to govern the United States, not to rule the world.
Lula's comments were made on the eve of his speech at the United Nations General Assembly in New York. He criticized Trump's governance style, saying it disregards the principles of international relations and protocols between heads of state. Lula described Trump's attitude as "unpleasant" and one that undermines established diplomatic norms.
The Brazilian president also denounced the power dynamics employed by the Trump administration in its international relations, which he associated with the "law of the strongest." Lula emphasized that he opposes this approach and advocated for a more collaborative and respectful global environment. These comments are not Lula's first criticism of Trump, as he has previously referred to the US president as an "emperor."
Trump has faced criticism for his diplomatic approach since returning to the White House in January 2025. His administration's withdrawal from international climate organizations, pressure on countries like Greenland, Panama, and Venezuela, and disagreements with Pope Francis over the Iran conflict have sparked accusations of unilateralism.
A Pew Research Center study published in June confirmed a decline in the international image of the United States since the start of Trump's second term. Lula's comments come amid ongoing trade tensions between Brazil and the US, which imposed tariffs of up to 50% on some Brazilian exports in summer 2025.
The Brazilian government had then considered the move as interference, particularly in light of the trial of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, an ally of Trump. Lula's speech at the UN General Assembly is expected to address these issues and may provide further insight into his stance on international relations and Trump's governance style.
The tensions between Brazil and the US are part of a larger context of global politics, with various countries and leaders navigating complex relationships and competing interests. Lula's criticism of Trump reflects broader concerns about the US approach to international relations and its implications for global stability and cooperation.
Key points
- Lula criticizes Trump's governance style as overstepping his authority.
- The Brazilian president opposes the "law of the strongest" in international relations.
- Lula's comments reflect ongoing tensions between Brazil and the US.
