Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva rejects Donald Trump’s unilateral tariff threat, emphasizing Brazil’s sovereign judicial process, economic reciprocity, and commitment to defending national interests amid escalating U.S.-Brazil trade tensions.

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On July 9, 2025, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva issued a strong statement in response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement of a 50% tariff on Brazilian exports. Lula condemned the unilateral nature of the tariff threat and reaffirmed Brazil’s sovereignty, judicial independence, and commitment to economic reciprocity under Brazilian law. This confrontation marks a significant escalation in trade tensions between the two largest economies in the Americas.

In a public message addressing Trump’s social media statements and official correspondence, Lula emphasized that Brazil is a sovereign nation with independent institutions that will not accept external tutelage or interference.

He underscored that the judicial process against former President Jair Bolsonaro, accused of involvement in a coup attempt, is exclusively under the jurisdiction of Brazilian courts and immune to foreign threats or pressure.

Lula also clarified Brazil’s stance on digital platforms, stating that Brazilian society rejects hate speech, racism, child exploitation, fraud, and attacks on democratic freedoms. He stressed that freedom of expression in Brazil does not equate to aggression or violence, and all companies operating in the country,domestic or foreign,must comply with Brazilian law.

Addressing Trump’s claims of an unfair trade deficit, Lula pointed to official U.S. government statistics showing a U.S. trade surplus of approximately $410 billion in goods and services with Brazil over the past 15 years.

He rejected the narrative of an imbalanced relationship and warned that any unilateral tariff increase by the U.S. would be met with a legal and reciprocal response under Brazil’s economic reciprocity law.

Tendo em vista a manifestação pública do presidente norte-americano Donald Trump apresentada em uma rede social, na tarde desta-quarta (9), é importante ressaltar:

O Brasil é um país soberano com instituições independentes que não aceitará ser tutelado por ninguém.

O processo…

— Lula (@LulaOficial) July 9, 2025

The text reads: Considering the public statement made by U.S. President Donald Trump on a social media platform this Wednesday afternoon (9), it is important to emphasize:

Brazil is a sovereign country with independent institutions that will not accept being tutored by anyone

Lula framed Brazil’s approach as one rooted in sovereignty, respect, and unwavering defense of the Brazilian people’s interests, signaling readiness to protect the country’s economic rights without escalating conflict unnecessarily.

Lula’s response also reflects Brazil’s broader commitment to a multipolar world order and fair trade relations. His government has been strengthening ties with emerging economies, particularly through BRICS, while resisting protectionist pressures from the U.S. and other Western powers.

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s firm reply to Donald Trump’s tariff threat underscores a critical moment in U.S.-Latin America relations. By defending judicial independence, rejecting unilateral economic aggression, and invoking legal reciprocity, Lula sends a clear message: Brazil will not be intimidated, and its sovereignty and economic dignity will be vigorously protected.

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