Brazil has consistently maintained a neutral position regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, rejecting Russia’s claims to territorial occupation. President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva emphasized the importance of diplomatic negotiations to resolve the war, as reported in an interview with El Pais.
Da Silva remarked that at the onset of the full-scale invasion, both Russia and Ukraine, along with their allies, were under the illusion of a swift victory. He noted that U.S. President Joe Biden anticipated a quick defeat of Russia, while Russian President Vladimir Putin expected an immediate takeover of Ukraine.
“Biden thought that he would soon destroy Russia. And Russia thought that it would soon destroy Ukraine. They were mistaken. The war has been ongoing for four years now,”
the Brazilian president stated, highlighting the prolonged nature of the conflict and its devastating human and financial toll.
Da Silva reiterated Brazil’s position, asserting that the country has never recognized Russia’s right to invade Ukraine. He stressed that the only viable solution lies in diplomatic efforts, as neither side has achieved its objectives in the ongoing hostilities.
Furthermore, he expressed skepticism regarding the possibility of an immediate cessation of fighting without external intervention through negotiations. The current stalemate, according to Da Silva, underscores the urgent need for dialogue to bring about an end to the conflict.
Brazil's President Lula da Silva has reaffirmed the country's neutral stance on the Ukraine conflict, advocating for diplomatic negotiations as the only path to resolution. He highlighted the misconceptions held by both Russia and the U.S. at the war's outset and expressed doubt about a quick end to hostilities without external mediation.
Source: RBC-Ukraine