Javier Milei intensifies criticism of Lula da Silva, calling him 'thief' and 'corrupt'

Argentine President Javier Milei has escalated his verbal attacks on Brazilian President Lula da Silva, labeling him a "thief" and "corrupt" individual in a recent interview. Milei asserted that Lula was not innocent, suggesting his acquittal in the Lava Jato operation was due to procedural issues rather than a lack of guilt.

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He was freed due to a flaw in the procedure. He is not innocent.

Defending his choice of words, Milei argued that accusing someone of theft is a milder offense than the act of stealing itself. He insisted that his strong remarks against Lula were spontaneous and rejected criticism from the Brazilian government. The Argentine president's comments came after he had previously called Lula a "thief," "corrupt," "inmate," and "socialist garbage" at a political event in São Paulo.

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Aggressive is someone who steals. It is much milder to call a thief a thief than the act of stealing itself.

The escalating rhetoric has led to a significant diplomatic rift between Argentina and Brazil. Brazil's Foreign Ministry summoned the Argentine ambassador to express its displeasure, while Argentina recalled its own diplomat from Brasília for consultations. Brazilian President Lula da Silva responded by calling Milei's participation in the political convention a "farce."

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Those words were spontaneous.

Despite the diplomatic fallout, Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira indicated that Brazil would not immediately resort to more severe measures, such as recalling its ambassador. However, he acknowledged the gravity of the situation and stated that discussions were underway to assess the conflict's scope. Initially, Lula had downplayed Milei's presence, asking "Who is this guy?" but later adopted a firmer stance, condemning the Argentine president's actions.

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You saw the nonsense the president of Argentina came to do. But I love Argentina and that will not change because of that thing. As long as I am president, no one from outside will be able to interfere in the elections.