Braslia: Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva stated that he has proposed a partnership with US President Donald Trump to apprehend leaders of Brazilian crime organizations residing in the United States, particularly in Miami. In a recent appearance on a private television channel, Lula shared details about his phone conversation with Trump, where he suggested collaboration to capture and detain these crime bosses.
According to Anadolu Agency, Lula emphasized to Trump the importance of detaining Brazilians involved in criminal activities while living in the US. He highlighted the necessity for countries in the region to coordinate their efforts against gang leaders and traffickers who are involved in arms and drug smuggling. Lula referred to US operations in the Caribbean against drug organizations, which have resulted in at least 83 deaths since September, and stressed to Trump that intelligence and smart tactics, rather than weapons, are essential to combat trafficking effectively.
Trump expressed his willingness to collaborate with Brazil and promised full support for joint initiatives that target criminal organizations. The discussion between the two leaders extended beyond crime and security, touching upon trade negotiations, particularly Washington's imposition of an additional 40% tariff on certain Brazilian products. The Brazilian government described the conversation as "very productive," with Lula lauding the US decision to remove the tariff as a positive development.
The call signifies a notable easing of tensions following a trade crisis, which had been exacerbated by Trump's initial imposition of additional tariffs. These tariffs were justified by Trump on grounds of what he considered unfair trade practices and the prosecution of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, who was sentenced to over 27 years in prison for attempting a coup after losing the 2022 election to Lula.