Brasília: Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has accused Donald Trump of attempting to position himself as a global emperor, urging the U.S. president to respect other nations' sovereignty.

In an interview with a local radio station on Thursday, Lula criticized Trump’s approach to international affairs, saying, “Post-World War II democracy has been an example of the best governance of the last 70 years, but the way (Trump) acts, he is trying to become an emperor of the world.”

He accused Trump of interfering in other countries' affairs and public policies, though he did not cite specific instances. His remarks come after Trump lashed out at Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, calling him a "dictator" and blaming him for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The Biden administration’s decision to engage in direct talks with Moscow has also caused friction with Kyiv.

Lula reiterated the importance of U.S.-Brazil relations, calling the United States an important commercial partner. However, he urged Trump to show greater friendship toward Brazil and criticized Washington’s recent tariffs on Brazilian steel and other products, calling for an end to protectionist policies.

Despite their political differences, Lula emphasized that bilateral cooperation should prevail, and sovereignty must be respected in global affairs.