Lula Warns Of Rising Unilateralism; Claims Trump Seeks Dominance Over Global Order

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has accused US President Donald Trump of undermining the foundations of multilateral global governance, claiming his actions reflect an attempt to dominate international institutions and weaken collective decision-making.

Speaking at an event organised by the Landless Rural Workers Movement in the northeastern state of Bahia, Lula said the world was witnessing a very critical political phase, marked by a steady erosion of multilateralism.

He argued that unilateral actions are increasingly shaping international relations and warned that countries are systematically disregarding the principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter.

Lula said he has stepped up diplomatic engagement in recent weeks to rally global leaders behind the idea of strengthening multilateral institutions.

He cited discussions with the leaders of Russia, China, India, Hungary and Mexico as part of efforts to explore the possibility of an international meeting aimed at reaffirming collective global responsibility.

The Brazilian President said the objective is to prevent a world order dominated by military power or intolerance, stressing that no single country should impose its will through force or coercion.

Criticism of Leadership Through Social Media

Earlier, addressing a public gathering in the southern municipality of Rio Grande, Lula criticised Trump’s approach to leadership, suggesting that governing through social media undermines respect and dialogue in international relations.

He questioned whether meaningful diplomacy was possible without direct human engagement, warning against treating people as objects rather than individuals.

While speaking at a housing programme ceremony in southern Brazil, where more than 1,200 homes were handed over to beneficiaries, Lula reiterated the need to restore humanism in social relations.

He also defended his government’s policy introduced in 2024, banning mobile phones in primary and middle schools, urging society to curb excessive dependence on digital devices.

Lula has yet to publicly respond to Trump’s reported invitation for Brazil to join a proposed Board of Peace concerning oversight of developments in the Gaza Strip.