Lula Backs China-Brazil Peace Initiative at UN, Warns US on Tariffs and Critical Minerals
During his opening speech at the UN General Assembly in New York on Tuesday, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva reiterated his commitment to a peace initiative he co-launched with China, aimed at resolving the Ukraine conflict. With Brazilian voters preparing for a closely contested presidential election, Lula described the Russia-Ukraine war as a five-year humanitarian crisis that "continues to claim lives." The China-Brazil peace coalition, formed at the UN in September 2024, has garnered support from representatives of 17 developing nations advocating for a negotiated resolution. Lula subtly criticized the United States regarding tariffs and military influence, while emphasizing that Brazil should benefit domestically from foreign access to its mineral wealth. Notably, he made no criticisms of China, highlighting Brazil's diplomatic balancing act between Western nations and Beijing.
Key facts
- Lula reaffirmed support for a China-Brazil peace initiative to end the war in Ukraine during his UN General Assembly opening speech
- The speech took place in New York on Tuesday, days before Brazil's tight presidential election
- The China-Brazil peace group was launched at the UN in September 2024 with representatives from 17 developing countries
- Lula described the Russia-Ukraine war as a five-year humanitarian drama that "continues to claim lives"
- Lula criticized the United States over tariffs, military pressure and access to critical minerals
- Lula demanded domestic benefits for Brazil from foreign access to its critical minerals
- Lula declared that Brazil is "no one's backyard"
- China received no criticism in Lula's address
Entities
Artists
- Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva
Institutions
- United Nations
- UN General Assembly
- South China Morning Post
Locations
- Brazil
- China
- Ukraine
- Russia
- United States
- New York
- Beijing
- Brasilia