Brazil does not want ‘a new Cold War’, says President Lula

Al Jazeera
February 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of Brazil has emphasized his desire to avoid a “new Cold War” and advocate for equal treatment among nations during his upcoming visit to the United States. Speaking at a press conference in India following a three-day trip, Lula expressed his hope to convey this message directly to U.S. President Donald Trump. He stressed that Brazil seeks peaceful international relations, free from interference and unequal treatment, aiming to foster cooperation rather than conflict. Lula’s remarks come as Brazil and the U.S. work to mend their relationship, despite differing views on issues like tariffs, Israel’s actions in Gaza, and the abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces. Following a Supreme Court decision that invalidated some of Trump’s tariffs, Lula remains optimistic about restoring normalcy to bilateral ties. He plans to meet with Trump during the first week of March to discuss trade, immigration, and investment, signaling Brazil’s commitment to collaboration. During his visit to India, Lula also met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to strengthen Brazil-India relations. The two leaders signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding on critical minerals and rare earths, aiming to diversify their trade and promote reciprocal investment in exploration and mining. This move reflects Brazil’s broader strategy to reduce dependence on other global powers, such as China, and build alternative alliances. Lula’s focus on peaceful diplomacy aligns with his vision for Brazil to prioritize economic growth and job creation while maintaining stable international relations. By fostering partnerships with both the U.S. and India, Brazil seeks to enhance its global influence without engaging in confrontational policies. Lula’s approach underscores a growing desire among nations to avoid tensions and instead focus on mutual benefits through cooperation. This shift in Brazil’s foreign policy is significant for readers interested in global politics, as it highlights the potential for renewed alliances and reduced geopolitical conflicts
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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/22/2026