Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has called on the United States and European Union to cease “encouraging” the war in Ukraine and instead start promoting peace. During a visit to Beijing, Lula stated that the US and EU should convince Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky that peace is in everyone’s best interest. He also revealed that he discussed with Chinese leader Xi Jinping the formation of a group of like-minded leaders on Ukraine.
Lula’s stance on the conflict in Ukraine differs from the US and EU, who have been major suppliers of arms and aid to Ukraine since Russia’s invasion. However, Lula’s trip to China has focused primarily on trade, how Chinese investment can help Brazil’s economy recover, and the potential benefits of carbon credits. While the conflict in Ukraine has dominated much diplomatic conversation in Europe and Washington, Lula’s visit highlights a growing distance from geopolitical issues preoccupying the West.
Lula’s approach to the situation in Ukraine aligns with his policy of non-intervention in the conflict, which has rebuffed efforts led by US President Joe Biden to unite the global community in opposition to Russia’s invasion. However, Lula’s call for the US and EU to cease encouraging the war in Ukraine suggests that he is not completely disengaged from the conflict.
Lula’s proposal to form a group of countries willing to find a way to make peace may indicate that he sees a potential role for Brazil in helping to resolve the conflict. As a major emerging economy and regional power, Brazil may be in a position to contribute to efforts to promote peace in Ukraine. However, it remains to be seen whether Lula’s proposal will gain traction among other countries, particularly those that have been more actively involved in the conflict.