“You Were Elected to Govern the U.S., Not Rule the World” – Brazil’s President Criticizes Trump

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has openly criticized former U.S. President Donald Trump’s approach to global affairs, urging him to focus on governing the United States rather than exerting influence over other nations. In a radio interview with Bahia-based stations Metrópole and Sociedade, Lula stated, “Trump was elected to govern the United States, not to rule the world.” His remarks were a direct response to Trump’s controversial proposal to remove Palestinians from Gaza, a plan that has drawn widespread international condemnation.

Lula emphasized the importance of maintaining “democratic and civilised relations with the rest of the world,” advocating for cooperation and respect for national sovereignty. He also raised concerns about the concentration of power in the hands of a few individuals, particularly in global communications. Without directly naming billionaire Elon Musk, Lula appeared to criticize the tech mogul’s growing influence, particularly during Trump’s administration. Musk, a vocal supporter of Trump, has faced scrutiny for his role in shaping public discourse through his ownership of major communication platforms.

“What cannot happen is for us to think that a businessman can own global communications and speak ill of the world all the time, interfering in countries’ elections,” Lula warned. His comments reflect broader concerns about the potential for concentrated power to undermine democratic processes worldwide.

Lula’s critique comes amid increasing global unease over U.S. foreign policy under Trump’s leadership, especially regarding its handling of international conflicts.