Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has agreed to visit Washington after a phone call with US President Donald Trump, reflecting a thaw in ties. Trump last year imposed 50% tariffs on Brazil citing the treatment of Jair Bolsonaro, but tensions have eased. Lula raised concerns about US actions on Venezuela and urged limits on a proposed "Board of Peace" to avoid competing with the UN. He also reaffirmed cooperation with China as global alignments shift.
Lula Agrees to Visit Washington After Call With Trump as Ties Thaw
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has accepted an invitation to visit Washington after a phone call with US President Donald Trump, a development widely seen as a sign that bilateral tensions are easing.
Last year, President Trump imposed 50% tariffs on Brazil — Latin America’s largest economy — citing what he described as unfair treatment of former president and political ally Jair Bolsonaro. The measure strained relations but the dispute has reportedly calmed in recent months.
In their conversation, Lula raised concerns about recent US moves regarding Venezuela’s leadership and urged Mr. Trump to narrow the scope of his proposed "Board of Peace," saying its focus should remain on Gaza to avoid duplicating or competing with the United Nations.
Separately, Lula spoke with China’s leader last week and pledged to continue cooperating with Beijing as global power dynamics shift while the United States seeks to reshape the international order.
Why It Matters
The visit could help ease trade frictions, reopen diplomatic channels and clarify positions on regional crises such as Venezuela and Gaza. It also highlights Brazil’s effort to balance relationships with both Washington and Beijing amid changing geopolitical currents.
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