Lula prepares for crucial meetings with Putin and Xi amid trade tensions
- Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva is set to meet with important leaders from Russia and China in May 2025, highlighting Brazil's growing international partnerships.
- Lula's scheduled attendance at Russia's Victory Day celebrations and the CELAC forum in China indicates a focus on strengthening economic ties amid rising global trade tensions.
- These meetings reflect Lula's strategy to navigate the effects of U.S. tariffs and bolster Brazil's commitments to multilateral trade relationships.
In May 2025, Brazil's President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva is scheduled to travel to Moscow and Beijing for meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping, respectively. This trip comes amidst growing concerns over a potential global trade war triggered by recent tariff policies implemented by U.S. President Donald Trump. Lula's visit includes participation in Russia's Victory Day celebrations on May 9, which commemorate the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II, showcasing Brazil's recognition of historical ties and military cooperation. Following these celebrations, Lula is expected to attend the China-Community of Latin American and Caribbean States Forum on May 12, marking his first official trip to Russia and his second to China during his current presidential term. Lula has a history of engagement with both nations, having visited Russia twice and China three times during his previous administrations between 2003 and 2010. His ongoing collaboration with these countries emphasizes Brazil's strategic interest in strengthening partnerships beyond the U.S., especially in light of recent U.S. economic policies that threaten free trade. Brazil's role as a prominent member of BRICS—an association of emerging economies established in 2009 aimed at counterbalancing the influence of the industrialized G7 nations—will also be underscored during Lula's diplomatic efforts. Brazil currently holds the BRICS presidency, which lasts until 2025, and will be the host for the upcoming summit scheduled for July 6-7 in Rio de Janeiro. This position allows Brazil to assert its influence in international economic discussions, promoting solidarity among developing nations. In recent statements made in Tokyo, Lula expressed his concerns regarding the implications of Trump's trade policies for Brazil, clearly stating that he believes they threaten free trade and undermine multilateralism. Such views suggest an intent to foster cooperation with Russia and China as crucial trading partners. China has solidified its position as Brazil's top trading partner, accounting for 28% of Brazil's exports in 2024 and supplying 24.2% of its imports. With the ongoing global focus on economic policies, Lula's upcoming meetings are crucial for reinforcing Brazil's commitment to multilateral relationships and addressing potential economic disruptions caused by rising tariffs globally.