The Claim: "A Imprensa Brasileira Quer Lula Abanando o Rabo Para Zelensky e Mostrando os Dentes Para Putin"
1. Introduction
The claim in question originates from an article published by Intercept Brasil, which discusses the expectations of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky regarding Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva's stance on the Russia-Ukraine war. The article suggests that certain Brazilian media figures, such as journalist Demétrio Magnoli, are advocating for Lula to take a more definitive stance against Russia, contrasting it with his current position that attributes equal responsibility for the conflict to both sides. This claim raises questions about the media's influence on political narratives and the expectations placed on foreign leaders in international conflicts.
2. What We Know
According to the article from Intercept Brasil, there is a perception among some Brazilian media commentators that Lula should adopt a more confrontational approach towards Russia, aligning more closely with Ukraine's position. Specifically, the article cites Magnoli's assertion that "Zelensky espera que Lula pare de dizer que a guerra é responsabilidade igual dos dois lados" (Zelensky expects Lula to stop saying that the war is equally the responsibility of both sides) 1.
Lula's current stance has been characterized as cautious, advocating for dialogue and negotiation rather than outright condemnation of Russia. This has led to criticisms from various quarters, including those who believe that Lula's position undermines Ukraine's plight.
3. Analysis
Source Evaluation
The primary source of this claim is an article from Intercept Brasil, a publication known for its investigative journalism and critical stance towards mainstream political narratives. While Intercept has gained a reputation for challenging established power structures, it is also important to consider potential biases. The publication often aligns with leftist perspectives, which may color its portrayal of Lula and his policies. This could lead to a framing that emphasizes criticism of Lula's foreign policy without equally representing supportive viewpoints.
The article does not provide direct evidence of widespread media consensus or specific examples of how other media outlets are pushing for Lula to change his stance. This lack of corroborating evidence raises questions about the extent to which this claim reflects a broader media narrative versus the opinion of a few individuals.
Conflicting Perspectives
To fully understand the implications of this claim, it would be beneficial to seek out additional sources that either support or contradict the assertion that Brazilian media is pressuring Lula. For instance, examining articles from more centrist or right-leaning publications could provide a contrasting view on Lula's foreign policy and the media's role in shaping public opinion.
Moreover, it would be valuable to analyze Lula's own statements and actions regarding Ukraine and Russia. Has he made any public commitments or changes in policy that align with the expectations outlined by Magnoli? Gathering direct quotes or policy outlines from Lula would help clarify his position and whether it aligns with or diverges from the media's expectations.
Methodological Concerns
The claim relies heavily on the interpretation of media commentary rather than empirical data or public opinion surveys. A more rigorous analysis would involve quantitative data on public sentiment regarding Lula's foreign policy, as well as a broader examination of how media narratives influence political decisions in Brazil.
4. Conclusion
Verdict: Mostly False
The claim that "A Imprensa Brasileira Quer Lula Abanando o Rabo Para Zelensky e Mostrando os Dentes Para Putin" is deemed "Mostly False" due to the lack of substantial evidence supporting the assertion that there is a widespread media consensus urging Lula to adopt a more aggressive stance against Russia. While some media figures, like Demétrio Magnoli, have expressed this view, the claim does not adequately represent the broader media landscape or Lula's nuanced position, which emphasizes dialogue over confrontation.
It is important to note that the evidence primarily stems from a single article, which may reflect the opinions of a limited number of commentators rather than a comprehensive media narrative. Furthermore, the potential bias of the source, Intercept Brasil, raises questions about the objectivity of the portrayal.
The limitations of the available evidence highlight the need for a more thorough investigation into public sentiment and media influence on Lula's foreign policy. As such, readers are encouraged to critically evaluate information and seek diverse perspectives to form a well-rounded understanding of the issue.
5. Sources
- Intercept Brasil - "Imprensa no Brasil queria Lula contra Putin" https://www.intercept.com.br/2023/09/22/a-imprensa-brasileira-quer-lula-abanando-o-rabo-para-zelensky-e-mostrando-os-dentes-para-putin/
- Intercept Brasil - "Trump se une a Putin, cutuca Europa e constrange patriotas" https://www.intercept.com.br/2025/03/08/trump-putin-europa-patriotas-brasileiros/
- Intercept Brasil - "Nunca foi Lula, sempre foi sorte" https://www.intercept.com.br/2023/12/23/nunca-foi-lula-sempre-foi-sorte/
- Intercept Brasil - "Trump não liga para a Ucrânia, mas quer lucrar" https://www.intercept.com.br/2025/02/21/trump-ucrania-zelenskyy-acordo-guerra-russia/
- Intercept Brasil - "Mídia do Brasil consegue atacar Lula até quando fala de Israel" https://www.intercept.com.br/2023/10/14/e-o-pt-hein-midia-brasileira-consegue-atacar-lula-ate-quando-fala-de-israel/
- Intercept Brasil - "O que a extrema direita brasileira ganha com Trump?" https://www.intercept.com.br/2025/03/14/extrema-direita-trump-america-latina/
- Intercept Brasil - Home https://www.intercept.com.br/
- Intercept Brasil - Série Vozes https://www.intercept.com.br/especiais/vozes/feed/
- Intercept Brasil - Tag Extrema direita https://www.intercept.com.br/tag/extrema-direita/feed/
- Intercept Brasil - Tag Desinformação https://www.intercept.com.br/tag/desinformacao/feed/
