Ukraine has again invited Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva to visit Kiev to discuss a formal agreement centered on addressing the root causes of Russian aggression and its impact on global security. The invitation, extended via Facebook by Oleg Nikolenko, spokesperson for Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry, follows Lula’s recent remarks on the conflict. Officials stressed Kyiv’s openness to dialogue while signaling concern over Lula’s portrayal of the situation, noting that attributing blame broadly can obscure the war’s specific dynamics. The message emphasized that the host government is pursuing peaceful solutions and regional stability.
Lula, the head of the Labor Party (PT), stated that in China, the United States appears to be encouraging the continuation of the war by signaling arms shipments to Kiev. In response, he urged the White House to initiate discussions aimed at peace. Lula’s current term is marked by efforts to assume a leadership role on the international stage. His travels have included trips to China and the United Arab Emirates, where he reiterated the view that the conflict involves more than a single party and underscored the need for diplomatic engagement.
Earlier in March, Lula and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky spoke via video call. Lula described the war as not serving anyone’s interests and pledged that Brazil would support all peace-building efforts. He expressed hope that continued dialogue could prevent further casualties and lay groundwork for a sustainable political settlement.
Anxiety in the White House
The Brazilian president’s comments have sparked concern in Washington. A White House spokesperson noted that Lula’s statements on Ukraine contained elements that diverged from the administration’s position, arguing that certain messages echo Russian and Chinese propaganda. Domestic critics in Brazil have also weighed in, suggesting Lula’s stance risks fueling anti-American rhetoric and complicating Brazil’s role as a key trading partner with China. Some observers argue that Lula’s outreach to Beijing reflects strategic diplomacy, even as Brazilian officials emphasize condemnation of the invasion. Foreign policy circles are watching closely how Brazil balances its alliances, sanctions responses, and calls for dialogue as the conflict evolves.