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Tensions escalated between Brazil and the U.S. as President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva condemned Donald Trump’s threat to impose 50% tariffs on Brazilian exports. Calling the move “unacceptable blackmail,” Lula firmly rejected Trump’s justification—which cited Brazil’s treatment of ex-president Jair Bolsonaro and alleged unfair trade practices. Speaking to student activists in Goias, Lula defiantly declared, “No gringo is going to give orders to this president.” He also signaled Brazil’s intent to regulate U.S. tech companies, accusing them of spreading violence and disinformation under the guise of free speech.
