Lula Warns Trump: Stay Out of Brazil's 2026 Election

Lula told Trump on June 17 that while the U.S. president may have opinions about elections, he cannot interfere in Brazil's 2026 vote. The warning comes six weeks after trade talks improved relations between the countries. Lula, running for re-election amid deep domestic divisions, risks losing votes if the U.S. publicly backs his opponents. The statement protects recent diplomatic progress while defending Brazil's electoral independence.