Facing actions by the United States, President Lula strongly criticized American foreign policy in Latin America during a summit in Bogota. His statements come in the midst of increased tensions in the region following the arrest of Maduro and the strengthening of the blockade against Cuba.
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva strongly criticized American foreign policy in Latin America on Saturday, March 21, 2026, mentioning a risk of “return to colonial domination” in the region, as reported on Sunday, March 22, 2026 by the Russian news site Russia Today (RT).
Speaking at the summit of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States in Bogota, Colombia, Lula denounced what he sees as external interferences contrary to democratic principles. Without explicitly mentioning the United States or President Donald Trump, he questioned, “Is it acceptable for a country to behave as if it were the owner of other nations?”
These statements come in a context of high regional tensions.
In January, Washington carried out an operation leading to the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, an action widely condemned as a violation of sovereignty by several countries.
Subsequently, the United States intensified pressure on Cuba, particularly through an oil blockade exacerbating an already severe energy crisis.
This situation has resulted in massive power outages affecting millions of residents.
The Trump administration justifies these measures as part of the fight against drug trafficking and regional security, but critics see it as a strategy to influence access to energy and mineral resources.
In his speech, Lula recalled the historical legacy of the Monroe Doctrine, stating that the region had already been exploited for its natural resources.
“After taking our resources, they are now seeking to appropriate our critical minerals and rare earths,” he declared.
The Brazilian president called on Latin American countries to defend their sovereignty and reject any external interference, emphasizing the importance of territorial integrity.
Meanwhile, Colombian President Gustavo Petro also cautioned against a logic of domination, asserting that the region “is not a land to conquer” and calling for dialogue with Havana.
These positions come at a time when Donald Trump recently expressed a desire to “take Cuba one way or another,” remarks that have stirred strong reactions in the region.
Source: Ivorian Press Agency (AIP)
