Brazil Seeks Firm Dialogue With U.S. Over Tariffs

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva expressed his willingness on Monday to begin negotiations with the United States following Washington’s announcement of a 50 percent tariff on key Brazilian exports.

However, Lula made it clear that any dialogue must be based on equality and mutual respect, reaffirming his commitment to defending Brazil’s national sovereignty.

Speaking at the National Meeting of the ruling Workers’ Party (PT), the president emphasized the central role of diplomacy in resolving international disputes.

“Brazil is not seeking conflict. We want solutions, but let no one be mistaken — we are not afraid to defend our interests,” Lula said during his address, which also included the formal appointment of Edinho Silva as the new PT president.

The Brazilian government’s response follows U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to impose steep tariffs on critical Brazilian exports. While the measure excludes some 700 products, including orange juice, cellulose, and aerospace components, it is expected to hit strategic sectors such as minerals and hydrocarbons hard.

Lula stressed that diplomatic channels remain open and pointed to efforts led by Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira and Vice President Geraldo Alckmin, who are in contact with their counterparts in Washington.

In earlier remarks to the Brazilian press, Trump stated that Lula could “call him anytime,” a comment analysts interpret as an attempt to soften the tone of the trade dispute.

Nevertheless, the Brazilian president reiterated that any engagement with the U.S. would be grounded in respect and reciprocity.

Bilateral tensions have been further strained by Washington’s recent decision to impose sanctions on Supreme Federal Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, citing his alleged role in investigations into a failed coup attempt linked to former president Jair Bolsonaro.

As the new tariffs are set to take effect on August 6, Lula faces the challenge of balancing international pressure with domestic stability, amid a political climate centered on institutional defense and Brazil’s reaffirmed role on the global stage.