Brazil's Lula Criticizes US, Calls Eduardo Bolsonaro Traitor, Urges Centrão Loyalty, Endorses Tarcísio for 2026, and Pushes Big Tech Regulation

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva criticized the United States government, particularly former President Donald Trump, accusing it of acting like "emperors of the planet" and reaffirmed Brazil's sovereignty amid tensions over regulatory and trade issues. Lula also condemned Eduardo Bolsonaro, calling him a "traitor to the homeland" and stating he should have been expelled from the Chamber of Deputies. In a ministerial meeting, Lula urged ministers from the Centrão coalition to publicly defend his government and introduced a new campaign slogan, "On the side of the Brazilian people," ahead of the 2026 presidential election. The meeting highlighted the political strategy of nationalism, which Lula sees as politically effective, especially in response to Trump's and Jair Bolsonaro's influence. Meanwhile, Marcos Pereira, president of the Republicanos party, indicated support for Tarcísio de Freitas as a potential right-wing candidate for the 2026 presidency. Political analysts noted the complexity of the 2026 election landscape, with Tarcísio navigating multiple political affiliations. The government also emphasized the need to regulate big tech companies and faced internal and external pressures, including potential US sanctions against ministers who might condemn Bolsonaro. Lula's administration is preparing for multiple political fronts and strategies to secure votes in the upcoming election cycle.