Lula da Silva Criticizes U.S. Influence Amid Bolsonaro’s Trial
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva condemned “traitors of the homeland” in an official address on Saturday, asserting that Brazil will not “accept orders” from foreign powers, particularly in context of U.S. pressure regarding the legal proceedings against former President Jair Bolsonaro, who is accused of undermining democracy, reports 24brussels.
In a radio and television broadcast commemorating the upcoming Independence Day, Lula emphasized Brazil’s autonomy, declaring, “We are not and will never again be a colony of anyone. We are capable of governing and taking care of our land and our people, without the interference of any foreign government.”
The progressive leader highlighted Brazil’s friendly international relations while firmly stating that “Brazil has only one owner: the Brazilian people.” He reiterated his commitment to protecting the nation’s democracy, reaffirming, “We defend our democracy and will resist anyone who tries to undermine it.” Lula’s remarks seemed directed at U.S. President Donald Trump, who has enacted sanctions against Brazilian Supreme Court justices and the country in response to Bolsonaro’s trial, viewing Bolsonaro as a victim of a “witch hunt.”
Lula further clarified Brazil’s judicial independence, noting that the Brazilian Constitution mandates separation among the three branches of government. “That means that the president of Brazil cannot interfere in the decisions of the Brazilian Justice system, contrary to what they want to impose on our country,” he stated.
Bolsonaro is facing charges in the Supreme Court for allegedly orchestrating a coup to block Lula’s inauguration following his defeat in the 2022 elections. The trial, which commenced this week, will resume next week, with Bolsonaro, currently under house arrest, facing up to 40 years in prison. Former ministers from his administration and military leaders are also implicated in the proceedings.
Lula alluded to additional investigations affecting Bolsonaro’s family, particularly mentioning the actions of some politicians encouraging attacks against Brazil, implicitly referencing Congressman Eduardo Bolsonaro, one of the former president’s sons, as “inadmissible.”
As tensions rise, Lula’s administration continues to navigate the complex political landscape, balancing international relations while asserting national sovereignty in the face of external pressures.
Source: EFE
