threaten other nations, in an interview published in Spain on Thursday. Lula's comments come after Trump this month warned that a "whole civilization will die" in Iran if the country did not open up the Strait of Hormuz. "Trump has no right to wake up in the morning and threaten a country," Lula told the Spanish daily El Pais, recalling that the US Constitution divides authority over war and foreign policy between Congress and the president. "It is essential that powerful leaders take greater responsibility in maintaining peace," the 80-year-old leftist president added.

Lula and Trump, 79, stand on opposite sides on issues including multilateralism, international trade and the fight against climate change. Brasília-Washington relations remain strained, despite a meeting between the leaders last year that helped ease tensions and led to a reduction in trade tariffs. Lula renewed calls for reform of the UN Security Council, including the removal of the veto held by five permanent members and the inclusion of more countries from Africa and Latin America. "It is time to redefine the United Nations to give it credibility, otherwise Trump is right," he said, referring to the US president's criticism that the post-World War II international system is no longer effective.

Lula spoke to the newspaper ahead of a visit to Spain, where he is to meet Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez and attend a forum of progressive leaders. Other attendees at the gathering in Barcelona on Saturday include Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. (Bssnews)