Facing actions by the United States, President Lula strongly criticized American foreign policy in Latin America during a summit in Bogota. His statements come amid 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 sharply criticized American foreign policy in Latin America on Saturday, March 21, 2026, discussing a risk of “return to colonial dominance” in the region, as reported by the Russian news site Russia Today on Sunday, March 22, 2026.
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 asked: “Is it acceptable for a country to behave as if it owns other nations?”
These statements come in the midst of regional tensions. In January, Washington carried out an operation that led 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 caused 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 exert influence, particularly over 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 wealth. “After taking our resources, they now seek to appropriate our critical minerals and rare earths,” he stated.
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 warned against any logic of domination, asserting that the region “is not a land to conquer” and calling for dialogue with Havana.
These positions come as Donald Trump recently stated his intention to “take Cuba one way or another,” sparking strong reactions in the region.
Source: Ivorian Press Agency (AIP)
