In a recent meeting between US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, Blinken expressed disagreement with controversial remarks made by the Brazilian leader. Lula had compared Israel’s military actions in Gaza to the Holocaust, referring to it as a “genocide” akin to Hitler’s persecution of Jews. The meeting, which lasted over 90 minutes, saw a frank exchange of views at the presidential palace in Brasilia, according to a senior State Department official.
Lula’s comments drew strong reactions from Israel, with the country declaring him “persona non grata.” Blinken reiterated the US stance during the meeting, emphasizing disagreement with Lula’s remarks on Israel’s actions in Gaza. Additionally, the two leaders discussed the possibility of diplomatic efforts regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine, although the current conditions were deemed unfavorable for such initiatives by the US official.
The conversation between Blinken and Lula also touched upon other regional issues, including the humanitarian crisis in Haiti and the territorial dispute between Venezuela and Guyana over the Essequibo region. Blinken thanked Brazil for its efforts to mitigate tensions between the two neighboring countries, highlighting Brazil’s role in regional diplomacy.
Following the meeting, Lula took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to share insights into the discussions, including topics such as a US-Brazilian initiative on worker assistance, environmental concerns, and the transition to clean energy. A photo posted by Lula showed him and Blinken smiling and shaking hands, indicating a positive tone despite differing opinions on certain matters.
In brief comments to journalists after the meeting, Blinken described it as “very, very good,” expressing satisfaction with the dialogue. This visit marked Blinken’s first trip to Brazil since assuming office three years prior. Relations between the US and Brazil had warmed after Lula returned to power in January 2023, replacing Jair Bolsonaro, who was seen as an ally of former US President Donald Trump.
Lula, known for his independent stance and advocacy for the Global South, has often challenged US policies, particularly regarding conflicts such as those in Gaza and Ukraine. Blinken’s subsequent arrival in Rio de Janeiro for a G20 foreign ministers meeting, where he will encounter his Russian counterpart, Sergei Lavrov, signifies ongoing diplomatic engagements in the region amidst complex geopolitical dynamics.
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