President Lula Engages 14 World Leaders Amid Global Crises on Venezuela, Gaza, and Greenland

In early 2026, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva held discussions with 14 global leaders to address pressing international geopolitical issues, including Venezuela's political unrest, the conflict in Gaza, and rising tensions over Greenland. Among those he spoke with were Colombia's Gustavo Petro, Russia's Vladimir Putin, and the United States' Donald Trump.

Central to these talks were the Mercosur-European Union trade agreement and Donald Trump's controversial proposal to establish a 'Peace Council' aimed initially at tackling Gaza’s crisis. Lula expressed concerns about the Peace Council's structure, fearing it could function as a "parallel UN" concentrating power in Trump's hands. He proposed limiting the council's activities to humanitarian issues in Gaza and advocated for Palestine to receive an official seat on this body.

Crucially, Lula condemned recent U.S. military operations targeting Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, describing the action as an unacceptable violation of international law and emphasizing Brazil's steadfast commitment to multilateralism and sovereignty.

Tensions over Greenland escalated as Trump asserted its strategic importance to U.S. national security and threatened tariffs against nations opposing U.S. claims. This move triggered symbolic military responses from several European countries, reflecting broader concerns regarding Trump's foreign policy tactics involving economic pressures and aggressive diplomacy.

Brazil's diplomatic engagement reflects its active role in navigating complex international crises, balancing regional interests with global stability. Lula's conversations illustrate Brazil’s efforts to promote dialogue, uphold multilateral principles, and defend national sovereignty while responding to shifting geopolitical dynamics.

As these situations develop, Lula’s proactive diplomacy positions Brazil as a significant actor on the international stage amid uncertainty concerning Venezuela’s future, the Gaza conflict, and Arctic geopolitical struggles involving Greenland.