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NEW YORK Friday, September 25, 2026 Friday Edition

Latin America

Lula Accuses Trump of Seeking to Colonize Brazil

Brazilian president claims US interference in election aims to gain access to natural resources.

New York Editorial News Desk September 25, 2026 1 min read

The Brief

  • Lula accuses Trump of backing Bolsonaro to 'colonize' Brazil and access its resources.
  • US State Department denies allegations of election interference.
  • Lula warns against external threats to Brazil's democracy during UN speech.

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has accused US President Donald Trump of attempting to 'colonize' Brazil and gain access to its natural resources by supporting his far-right rival, Flávio Bolsonaro, in the upcoming election.

Lula's campaign released a one-minute advertisement alleging that Trump is backing Bolsonaro to advance US interests in Brazil, with the video stating that Trump's goal is to 'take our riches, steal our future and leave us in the dust.'

The US State Department has rejected the allegations, calling them a 'baseless lie' and stating that any insinuation of a 'ploy' to undermine Brazil's election is unfounded.

Lula also claimed that Bolsonaro, if elected, would seek to transfer Brazil's natural resources to the US, warning that Brazil would 'become a colony again' under his leadership.

The election is set for October 4, with a second round on October 25 if no candidate secures a majority. Lula has faced growing concerns over alleged US interference, including 25% tariffs on Brazilian imports and diplomatic pressure.

Lula addressed these concerns at the UN General Assembly, vowing to protect Brazil's democratic process and stating that 'Brazilian democracy belongs to the Brazilians.'

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