Photo: Evaristo Sa/AFP
Eurasia
10/08/2025 16:26
Brazilian President Lula spoke with Putin for about 40 minutes on Saturday, with discussions centered on peace efforts between Russia and Ukraine, as well as BRICS cooperation. According to the Brazilian presidential palace, Putin briefed Lula on his talks with the United States and the broader international political and economic situation. The two leaders also discussed upcoming bilateral engagements, including the next Brazil-Russia High-Level Commission on Cooperation later this year.
Brazil has been hit by 50% tariffs on 30 July, a measure implemented due to legal proceedings against former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro. Lula has indicated that Brazil will not retaliate with reciprocal tariffs but is exploring the possibility of a coordinated response with BRICS nations. Lula’s office also emphasized that Brazil intends to call upon BRICS leaders, including South Africa, to coordinate a joint response to the tariffs. South Africa also hit by 30% on 1 August.
India, which is the only country currently under US tariffs implemented for purchasing Russian oil, faces 50% tariffs since 7 August—a move firmly criticised by New Delhi. The Ministry of External Affairs called the tariff increase "unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable." They emphasized that India's imports of Russian oil are driven by market factors and the country's energy security needs, particularly given its population of 1.4 billion people.
In addition to its response to the tariffs, India has expressed its support for the U.S.-Russia summit, signaling its readiness to back efforts to bring an end to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Prime Minister Modi has consistently called for peace, asserting that "This is not an era of war." The Indian government, echoing Modi’s sentiments, has welcomed the summit, seeing it as a pivotal moment for peace. According to a spokesperson from the Ministry of External Affairs, the meeting holds the promise of resolving the Ukraine crisis and opening up prospects for peace.
