Lula Hits Campaign Trail in Rio, Takes Swipes at Putin and Trump

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva brought his re-election campaign to a working-class neighborhood in Rio de Janeiro's west zone on Saturday, appearing alongside allies Eduardo Paes, the candidate for governor, and Senate candidates Benedita da Silva and Pedro Paulo.

Addressing supporters, Lula voiced frustration with global leaders, saying he was tired of watching the war waged by Russia's Vladimir Putin and of hearing former U.S. President Donald Trump boast about having the biggest ships, rockets, and bombs. He pivoted to a message of national resilience, declaring that Brazil does not seek conflict but will not be pushed around, calling the pride of the Brazilian people the nation's best weapon.

The president also touched on the role of technology in the campaign, warning that the opposition would rely on artificial intelligence because, in his words, they do not know the truth and only know how to lie.

Lula's broader campaign message has centered on national sovereignty. He has pledged to strengthen Brazil's defense industry and to ensure that the country's strategic mineral resources are processed domestically for the benefit of Brazilians, rather than being controlled by foreign interests.

The Rio event was aimed at reinforcing the alliance with Paes, a former mayor, who is running for governor. Recent polls reportedly show the ticket with a comfortable lead over the candidate backed by a political rival of Lula's main presidential opponent. The coalition is also seeking to elect da Silva and Paulo to the Senate to expand the government's influence in the upper house.

Brazil's general election is scheduled for October 4, when voters will choose the president, governors, senators, and federal and state legislators.