Brazil's Lula Criticizes US Military Presence Creating Caribbean Tensions

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has strongly criticized the United States' military presence in the Caribbean, describing it as a significant source of regional tension incompatible with the area's peaceful vocation. Speaking at a virtual BRICS summit, Lula highlighted concerns that the U.S. naval deployment, justified by Washington as an anti-drug trafficking operation, could be a precursor to intervention in Venezuela, a claim denied by Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. The Trump administration's recent actions, including a lethal strike on a vessel alleged to be involved in drug trafficking and increased military assets near Venezuela, have escalated tensions and drawn condemnation from Lula, who also called for multilateral cooperation and defended Brazil's position on sustainable development and the expansion of the UN Security Council. Lula's remarks come amid broader disputes with the U.S., including tariff conflicts, and reflect growing regional unease about U.S. intentions and influence. Maduro has urged his country to prepare for potential attacks, while the U.S. continues to accuse his government of drug trafficking without providing conclusive evidence. The situation underscores shifting geopolitical dynamics in Latin America, with countries like Brazil seeking closer ties with powers such as China amid U.S. pressures.