Brazil's President Defiant: Rejects Trump's Tariff 'Tutelage

Lula Strongly Rejects Trump’s 50% Tariff Threat, Asserts Brazil’s Sovereignty

Brasilia, July 10: Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has firmly rejected US President Donald Trump’s proposed 50% tariff on Brazilian goods, calling it a challenge to Brazil’s sovereignty and independent institutions.

Trump’s tariff proposal—revealed in a social media post on Wednesday—accuses Brazil of attacking US tech firms and orchestrating a “witch hunt” against former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, who is facing prosecution for his alleged role in an attempted coup following the 2022 election.

In a sharp response posted on X (formerly Twitter), Lula stated:

"Brazil is a sovereign nation with independent institutions. We will not accept any form of tutelage. Judicial proceedings related to the attempted coup are under the exclusive jurisdiction of Brazil’s judiciary, and are not subject to interference or threats."

Digital Laws and Free Speech

Lula also addressed Trump’s criticisms of Brazil’s digital platform regulations, defending the country’s stance:

"Brazilian society rejects hateful content, racism, child pornography, fraud, and attacks on human rights. Freedom of expression cannot be confused with aggression or violence. All companies operating in Brazil—whether domestic or foreign—must comply with Brazilian laws."

Trade Claims Dismissed

Lula pushed back against Trump’s claim of a trade deficit between the two nations:

"The US government’s own data shows a $410 billion trade surplus with Brazil over the past 15 years in goods and services. Any unilateral tariff hike will be responded to under Brazil’s Economic Reciprocity Law."

He concluded by reaffirming Brazil’s principles:

"Sovereignty, respect, and unwavering defence of the Brazilian people's interests will always guide our global relations."

The strong-worded response signals rising trade tensions and Brazil’s determination to resist any perceived external pressure from the US.