Brazil’s Environment Minister Marina Silva has voiced strong criticism regarding tariffs imposed on her country by former US President Donald Trump and alleges the involvement of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro.
In an interview, Silva stated that Bolsonaro, his party and family appear to be collaborating with the US government in an effort to evade accountability for actions taken during his presidency. She characterized Trump’s intervention as legally inappropriate, citing the principle of separation of powers within Brazil.
Silva described a situation where a demand was allegedly made – that Brazil halt legal proceedings against Bolsonaro or face tariffs of 50% – as “unforgivable” accusing Bolsonaro of supporting and organizing this alleged coercion from the United States.
The Minister also lamented the United States’ withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement. Looking ahead to the COP30 climate conference, which Brazil will host this November, Silva emphasized the increased burden placed on other nations due to the US’s absence. She called for a leading role for Brazil, the European Union, the United Kingdom, South Africa, China and India in driving climate action, stating, “We must do our part, because we are not suicidal.
Silva indicated that COP30 should be a conference focused on implementing existing climate agreements, referencing commitments made at the previous conference in Dubai to limit global warming to 1.5°C, mobilize funding, triple renewable energy capacity and end deforestation.
Responding to criticism regarding Brazil’s current President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s support for oil exploration near the Amazon Delta, Silva asserted that the President remains committed to environmental protection, referencing a pledge made during the election campaign and upon taking office to eliminate deforestation by 2030.
Silva also expressed hope that recently passed legislation simplifying environmental licensing procedures can be revised. She stated that President Lula has tasked her with developing alternative proposals to address aspects of the bill that could compromise Brazil’s national and international climate commitments.