Trump could meet Brazil's Lula in Malaysia, officials say

Brazilian diplomats tell Reuters they are cautious on the matter as there has been no official confirmation from the White House

File photo: Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. Photo credit: Reuters

Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and US President Donald Trump could meet in Malaysia in the coming days, Brazilian diplomatic sources told Reuters on Wednesday, as the countries navigate hefty tariffs imposed by Washington.

O Globo newspaper reported late on Tuesday, citing sources, that a meeting between the two leaders was agreed for Sunday in Malaysia, but said the time was still undecided.

Brazilian diplomats told Reuters they are cautious on the matter as there has been no official confirmation from the White House.

A White House official had earlier said there were "discussions about facilitating such a meeting" in Malaysia following a friendly call between both heads of state last month, during which they discussed economic and trade relations.

Trump increased tariffs on US imports of most Brazilian goods to 50% from 10% in early August, linking the move to what he called a "witch hunt" against former President Jair Bolsonaro.

Bolsonaro ended up being convicted in September by a Supreme Court panel to more than 27 years in prison for plotting a coup after he lost the 2022 election to Lula.