Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Brief TrumpLula Encounter Opens Door to Talks as U.S. Tariffs on Brazil Stand

Lula signaled readiness to negotiate on trade while rejecting any bargaining over Brazil’s sovereignty and judicial independence.

Brazil President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, left, attends a climate summit, Wednesday, Sept. 24, 2025, at U.N. headquarters. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)
President Donald Trump addresses the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2025, at U.N. headquarters. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)
Brazil President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva addresses the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2025. (AP Photo/Richard Drew)
Brazil President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva addresses the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2025, at U.N. headquarters. (AP Photo/Angelina Katsanis)

Overview

  • Presidents Trump and Lula shared a friendly 20–40 second exchange at the U.N. General Assembly and, according to Trump, agreed to meet as soon as next week.
  • The White House’s 50% tariffs on many Brazilian exports and sanctions tied to actions against Jair Bolsonaro remain in force.
  • Lula said he is open to discussions on trade and investment but emphasized that Brazil’s democracy and courts are not up for negotiation.
  • Reuters reported that JBS co-owner Joesley Batista met Trump privately weeks before the U.N. encounter, with sources saying he raised concerns about tariff costs; JBS and the White House did not comment.
  • Brazilian political figures and analysts framed the encounter as a potential thaw that could revive stalled talks, and markets reacted positively to the change in tone.