According to Lula of Brazil, Maduro Should Be Tried in Venezuela, Not Abroad

In a special interview with India, Brazilian President Luiz Incio Lula da Silva stated Today that if Venezuelan leader Nicols Maduro is to face trial, it should happen in his own country — not in a foreign courtroom.

During the extensive discussion, Lula stated, “What matters now is to re-establish democracy in Venezuela.” “And I think that Maduro should be tried domestically, not overseas, if he must be tried.”

Lula’s comments coincide with heightened tensions after US forces captured Maduro earlier this year. He stressed that Brazil will not tolerate another country controlling the destiny of a neighboring head of state and denounced what he called outside meddling in Venezuela’s domestic affairs. He referred to what he described as an illegal arrest and stated, “There’s no explanation for this.”

According to Lula, Brazil’s stance on Venezuela is based on respect for historical precedent and sovereignty. He cautioned against repeating the same mistakes, citing a history of military coups in nations like Chile, Argentina, and Uruguay in the 1960s that were frequently connected to outside influence. He stated that the Venezuelan people must resolve the issue on their own, without outside intervention.

Lula also informed India Brazil emphasizes that relations should be “civilized” and founded on respect for one another rather than conflict, stating that it does not feel threatened by the US or any other nation today. He noted that in order to resolve unresolved trade concerns, his government is preparing face-to-face negotiations with Donald Trump in response to prior tariffs imposed by the US.

Lula reiterated that Brazil’s condemnation of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and its stance on Gaza stem from the same principles: upholding international law and peaceful resolution of conflicts. He declared, “It is unacceptable for the head of state of one nation to invade another and seize the president.”

The Brazilian leader said he hopes the Venezuelan crisis will be resolved by Venezuelans themselves and that restoring democratic institutions is the region’s priority.