Trump Invites Lula for Talks Amid Tariff Tensions and Judicial Dispute

U.S. President Donald Trump has said that Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva is welcome to call him anytime to discuss tariffs and ongoing bilateral tensions. Speaking to reporters at the White House on August 1, Trump stated, “Lula can speak to me whenever he wants,” adding that while he loves the Brazilian people, he believes the country's current leadership is “making mistakes.”

Brazilian Finance Minister Fernando Haddad welcomed Trump’s remarks, calling them “excellent,” and noted that Lula is also open to dialogue. He hinted that a direct meeting between the two presidents could take place soon. A virtual meeting is already scheduled for next week between Haddad and U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, potentially paving the way for the high-level talks.

Trump recently imposed tariffs of up to 50% on certain Brazilian products, though not all goods are affected. In addition, he labeled the ongoing prosecution of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro as a form of political persecution and announced sanctions against the Supreme Court judge overseeing the case.

President Lula has rejected both the tariffs and sanctions, calling them “unjustified” and an unacceptable interference in Brazil’s judicial system.

On social media platform X, Lula wrote that Brazil remains open to dialogue, though he made no direct reference to Trump’s comments.

Analysts say the diplomatic signals from both sides suggest a cautious openness to restoring communication—despite escalating economic and political friction.