Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva expressed his concerns on Monday regarding comments made by Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. Maduro suggested that a defeat in the upcoming presidential elections could trigger a “bath of blood” in Venezuela, sparking widespread reactions globally.
During a press conference with international reporters in Brasília, Lula voiced his surprise and worry over Maduro’s statement. “I was frightened by that declaration. In a democracy, those who lose face a shower of votes, not blood,” he stated.
Lula’s remarks came in a tense regional context as Venezuela approaches its presidential elections. On Sunday, July 28, millions of Venezuelans will head to the polls for what are deemed “historic” elections, reportedly among the most challenging for the ruling Chavismo after 25 years in power.
Lula also highlighted the crucial role of professional and critical journalism as a fundamental pillar of democracy, which often irritates those who believe they own the truth.
The Brazilian leader mentioned he had met with Maduro on two occasions to emphasize the need for respecting the democratic process and ensuring a peaceful transition. “Maduro must learn that when someone wins, they stay; when they lose, they prepare for another election,” Lula emphasized. He stressed that the elections present “the only opportunity” for Venezuela to regain stability and reintegrate into the international community, especially after years of economic collapse exacerbated by sanctions.
Lula reiterated his support for elections that adhere to the Barbados Agreements, ensuring full opposition participation and recognition from all sectors. He announced the planned deployment of Brazilian electoral observers, including former Foreign Minister Celso Amorim, to monitor the election process and ensure its transparency.
“It is essential that the elections in Venezuela are seen as legitimate and fair by the international community,” Lula insisted, calling for respect for the popular will expressed at the ballot box.
Meanwhile, Nicolás Maduro, who has been in power since 2013, is seeking a third six-year term. He has framed the electoral process as a choice between “peace and war,” warning that an opposition victory could result in a “bath of blood.”
“On July 28, if you don’t want Venezuela to plunge into a bath of blood or a fratricidal civil war fueled by fascists, let’s ensure the greatest success, the biggest victory in our electoral history,” Maduro declared at a campaign event last week.
Lula is cautiously navigating relations with Venezuela and Argentina, where he has expressed differing views, particularly regarding Argentine President Javier Milei. He remains committed to maintaining stable relationships regardless of the governments in power. “Why fight with Venezuela, Nicaragua, or Argentina? Let them choose their presidents. What matters to me is the relationship between states,” he said during an event in São Paulo.
Lula recalled the previous administration of Jair Bolsonaro, describing that period as one where Brazil became “sort of an international pariah.” He noted, “We went through a time when no one wanted to come here and no one wanted to receive him,” referring to his predecessor without directly naming him.
Source: https://www.perfil.com/noticias/internacional/lula-da-silva-admitio-que-se-asusto-tras-la-advertencia-de-nicolas-maduro-sobre-un-posible-bano-de-sangre-en-caso-de-perder.phtml
