Lula Repeats in Abu Dhabi that Ukraine and Russia Are Responsible for War

In Abu Dhabi, the President says the decision for conflict has been taken by both countries

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President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva (PT) again held Ukraine responsible this Sunday (16) for the conflict that has dragged on in Eastern Europe for 13 months. The statement was made in Abu Dhabi, in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where the Brazilian leader made a stop on his return from his trip to China.

ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES - April 15, 2023: HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates (R) and HE Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, President of Brazil (L), stand for a photograph during an official visit reception, at Qasr Al Watan. Rashed Al Mansoori/UAE Presidential Court/Handout via REUTERS - via REUTERS

"President [Russian Vladimir] Putin does not take the initiative to stop. [Ukrainian President Volodymyr] Zelensky does not take the initiative to stop. Europe and the United States continue to contribute to the continuation of this war. We have to sit at the table and say to them: 'Enough', said Lula before ending his visit to the Arab nation. He added that the "decision for the conflict was taken by both countries".

The PT member once again defended his proposal for a "peace club" to end the Ukrainian War. According to him, the negotiations should be conducted by a group similar to the G20, which brings together the largest economies in the world. The initiative has not generated enthusiasm among Western leaders so far.

Translated by Cassy Dias

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