Brazil's Lula rejects U.S. interference amid tariff, tech tensions

BRASILIA, July 17 (Xinhua) -- Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said Thursday that Brazil will not tolerate foreign interference in its internal affairs, amid growing tensions with the United States over new tariffs and digital regulations.

Speaking to thousands of students at a national congress in Goiania in south-central Brazil, Lula dismissed suggestions that the tariffs were linked to the prosecution of former President Jair Bolsonaro.

"We won't accept interference from any foreign country," Lula said.

Lula pledged a civil and democratic response, while announcing that U.S.-based digital platforms will be required to comply with Brazilian laws and pay taxes. He accused the companies of fueling disinformation and harming Brazilian society.

"This country is sovereign. No foreigner gives orders to the president of Brazil. My only boss is the Brazilian people," he said. ■