Lula seeks Trump call amid tensions

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva is seeking a phone conversation with US President Donald Trump to discuss International — United Nations Security Council agenda items and to prevent potential US interference in Brazil's upcoming presidential elections. The outreach comes amid heightened political and trade tensions between Brazil and the United States. According to Brasil 247, no date has been confirmed for the call, and the White House's focus on the Middle East conflict may delay contact. Lula has recently spoken with Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin. Officials at the Planalto Palace view US relations as a major challenge for a potential fourth Lula term, particularly concerned about foreign influence in Brazil's electoral process, possibly via extremist groups on social media. Security cooperation is another point of divergence, as Washington has expanded military cooperation with right-wing governments in Latin America, while Brazil and Mexico have taken a cautious approach. The Brazilian government has not ruled out scenarios of increased US pressure, including military intervention advocated by some far-right members, though officials assess interference would likely remain in the social media sphere. Lula aims to protect Brazil's sovereignty while maintaining working relations with Trump.