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Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said US President Donald Trump has the right to govern the United States but not other countries, arguing that Washington must respect national sovereignty.
“President Trump was elected to be the US president. He has the right to govern. But he doesn’t have the right to govern other countries,” Lula said in an interview with CNN anchor Christiane Amanpour, according to CNN Brasil.
“He doesn’t have the right to impose his will,” Lula added. “I like to be respected and show respect.”
Lula calls for stronger multilateralism
The Brazilian leader criticised what he described as Trump’s unilateral approach to international affairs and called for stronger multilateralism to help resolve global disputes.
“The best way to keep the world in harmony is to strengthen multilateralism,” Lula said.
He said Trump’s approach was based on the idea that the strongest country could impose its will on others, a view he rejected.
“He has a way of governing: ‘I am the strongest, I am the richest, I can do everything and the others have to obey.’ It is the law of the strongest. I do not agree with that,” Lula said.
Brazil and US remain at odds
Lula has repeatedly criticised Trump’s approach to international relations as tensions between Brasilia and Washington have increased over trade measures and US pressure on Brazil.
He has also urged the United States not to interfere in Brazil’s 2026 presidential election, saying the country’s political affairs should be decided by Brazilians.
Lula arrived in New York on Sunday ahead of the 81st session of the UN General Assembly. He is scheduled to deliver the traditional opening speech on Tuesday.
Brazil and the United States remain engaged in disputes over trade measures and Washington’s criticism of Brazilian affairs. Lula said Brazil wanted dialogue and negotiations with the United States but would not accept external impositions.
