US President Donald Trump and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva met at the White House on Thursday, exchanging public compliments but failing to hold a joint press conference-a sign that key disagreements remain.
Trump called the meeting "very good" on Truth Social, while Lula said he left "very satisfied." But the two leaders are far apart on trade, with Lula proposing a 30-day working group to negotiate tariffs. "Whoever is wrong will give in," Lula said.
Tensions also persist over crime, the US war in Iran, and potential American interference in Brazil's October elections. Trump has pressed Lula to drop charges against former President Jair Bolsonaro, convicted of an attempted coup.
Experts say the lack of a joint Oval Office appearance reflects unresolved issues, but the three-hour meeting signals a pragmatic shift. Both leaders face elections-Lula in October, Trump in November-and have an interest in avoiding public friction.