Brazil’s Lula says Maduro should face trial in Venezuela, not US
Al Jazeera
February 21, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has called for Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro to face trial in his home country rather than in the United States, where he is currently detained following his abduction by U.S. forces. Lula emphasized that the fate of Maduro should be determined by the Venezuelan people without foreign interference. He highlighted the historical role of U.S.-backed dictatorships in Latin America, including those in Chile, Argentina, and Uruguay, to underscore his opposition to external intervention.
Lula’s remarks come amid efforts by Venezuela’s acting president, Delcy Rodríguez, to release political prisoners detained during Maduro’s tenure, which began in 2013. The Brazilian leader also criticized the U.S. for capturing Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, in a raid ordered by former U.S. President Donald Trump. Maduro was taken to New York and faces charges related to drug trafficking, despite evidence suggesting Venezuela is not a major producer of narcotics.
The U.S. has justified its military buildup near Venezuela as part of efforts to combat drug trafficking. However, Trump administration officials have also sought to exploit Venezuela’s oil reserves, inviting U.S. companies to extract oil from the country under the guise of benefiting Venezuelans. Lula’s comments reflect a broader critique of U.S. involvement in Latin American affairs and a push for regional sovereignty.
This situation matters globally as it highlights tensions between Latin American leaders and the United States over issues of sovereignty and intervention. Lula’s stance positions Brazil as a mediator, advocating for democratic solutions within Venezuela rather than external control. The implications of his remarks could influence how other nations view U.S. actions in the region and the importance of respecting national sovereignty.
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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/21/2026