Tensions rose between the US and Brazil after President Donald Trump imposed a 50% tariff on Brazilian goods. In response, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva declined Trump’s invitation for talks and instead vowed to consult BRICS allies, including India’s PM Modi and China’s Xi Jinping. The move signals Brazil’s shift toward strengthening BRICS unity amid worsening US relations.

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• Lula declined Trump’s offer for talks over new US tariffs
• US imposed 50% tariffs on Brazil, worsening bilateral ties
• Lula called the day of tariff imposition “most regrettable” in US-Brazil relations
• Says he will call Modi, Xi, other BRICS leaders—not Trump or Putin
• Trump responded Lula can call “anytime” but accused Brazil’s leaders of “wrong moves”
• Tariffs linked to US concerns over Brazil’s internal politics and Bolsonaro’s coup trial
• Lula emphasized defending Brazil’s economy through diplomatic means
• Shift toward BRICS seen as Brazil counters US influence
• Trump also threatened 10% tariffs on BRICS-supporting nations
• Lula’s outreach to BRICS seen as strategic alignment in global south geopolitics