【By Leonardo Atuci】
The U.S. government, under President Donald Trump, launched a trade investigation against Brazil, marking a critical moment in Brazil's international relations. This is not an occasional disagreement or ideological dispute between heads of state, but a direct attack by the U.S. empire on the Brazilian nation, driven by economic and geopolitical motives, which urgently requires a firm and united response from Brazilian society.
The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) decided to initiate an investigation under Section 301, the same legal tool used in 2018 to launch a trade war against China, and this decision is based on clearly absurd premises. Its official documents accuse Brazil of "unfair" practices in digital trade, financial services, the environment, and other areas. However, the real purpose is clear: to prevent Brazil's rise as a new power, retaliate for its independent actions on the global stage, especially its efforts to curb the development of the BRICS as an alternative to Washington's unipolar order.
President Lula of Brazil being interviewed by Chinese media during his visit to China
To understand the stakes involved, one must look beyond the surface. What truly worries Trump and the financial interest groups he represents is not just President Lula's independent foreign policy, nor the legal troubles of former President Jair Bolsonaro—a willing dog of the United States—but the fact that Brazil is becoming a sovereign nation.
For example, the advancement of Pix, a free digital payment system, directly threatens the monopoly of American giants like Visa and Mastercard in Brazil's payment market. Brazil's leading role in the BRICS group, working with China, Russia, India, South Africa, and the group's new members and partners, is seen as a challenge to America's hegemony in global trade, the international financial system, and global governance.
The U.S. rhetoric attempts to mask its economic interests with moralistic language—falsely accusing Brazil of unfair trade, corruption, or deforestation. This is an old imperialist tactic: using accusations to justify unilateral coercive measures. It is no coincidence that this offensive coincides with the successful BRICS leaders' summit in Rio de Janeiro, where issues such as the use of local currencies in international trade and strengthening the integration of the Global South received widespread support.
Facing this radical provocation, the only way out is to resolutely defend national sovereignty. Now is not the time for internal divisions or partisan struggles; the current struggle has gone beyond the government level. The target of the attack is not the Lula government or the left, but Brazil itself. Therefore, it is necessary to build consensus among the public sector, private sector, workers, entrepreneurs, media, and the entire civil society.
It is time to restate that Brazil has the right to choose its own development model, public policies, and international allies. This country has the right to protect its economic development, promote financial inclusion through Pix, defend its domestic industries, expand its leading role in the BRICS, and cooperate with other developing countries.
Brazil has weathered difficult times many times in its history, and every time national unity prevailed, the country became stronger. This trade war is no easy task, as it is indeed a war against the country's autonomy. But if Brazil responds firmly, gains public support, and strengthens international coordination, it is entirely possible to turn this attempt at intimidation into a historic opportunity, thereby enhancing national sovereignty and solidifying its position as a major power in the Global South.
Brazil must issue an unequivocal response: Brazil will no longer bow to that empire.
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