World leaders from various countries congratulated Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva after his re-election, describing his victory as a triumph for democracy and a comeback for progressive politics. However, his rival, Flávio Bolsonaro, refused to accept defeat.

Lula secured 51.8 percent of the vote, while Bolsonaro received 48.2 percent.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described Lula’s victory as a “victory for democracy and multilateralism.” In a post on social media platform X, she said, “Europe’s partnership with Brazil is flourishing.”

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum celebrated Lula’s victory on Sunday. In a post on X, she wrote, “Long live democracy; the people of Brazil have won.”

Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel congratulated Lula on his “historic victory,” saying it would ensure continuity on the path toward peace, sovereignty and social justice.

Former Argentine President Cristina Kirchner, who is currently under house arrest in connection with a corruption case, said Lula had managed to inspire the feelings and understanding necessary to secure victory among his compatriots. She made the remarks in a post on X.

Uruguayan President Yamandú Orsi said he had spoken with Lula and congratulated him on his victory and the democratic celebration reflected in the electoral process.

‘A Day for Democracy’

Lula’s victory means Brazil has maintained its position against a conservative political trend that has seen several Latin American countries, including Argentina, Chile, Colombia and Peru, shift towards the right. US President Donald Trump has supported this trend.

Peruvian President Keiko Fujimori described Brazil’s election day as a “day for democracy” and congratulated Lula on his victory. In a post on X, she reaffirmed her interest in strengthening strategic partnership and cooperation between the two countries, as well as promoting sustainable development in their shared Amazon region.

Chilean President José Antonio Kast, a close ally of Bolsonaro, said on X, “Chile and Brazil have a bright future ahead of them.”

Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa called for continued cooperation with Lula. “Our region has common enemies and common challenges. By working together, we have many opportunities to achieve,” he said.

‘Return of the Progressives’

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez welcomed Lula’s victory as the beginning of a “return of the progressives.” Trailing in opinion polls ahead of November’s election in his own country, Sánchez said, “What happened in Brazil will happen in Spain, too.”

French President Emmanuel Macron called for stronger strategic ties with Brazil.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, whose country currently holds the BRICS presidency, extended his warm congratulations to Lula. Brazil is also a member of the geopolitical and economic bloc.

Modi said he looked forward to working closely with Lula to deepen and broaden the multifaceted strategic partnership between India and Brazil.

Russia, another BRICS member, also welcomed Lula’s victory. A Kremlin spokesperson said Lula had made significant contributions to improving bilateral relations and advancing various initiatives within the BRICS framework.

China also congratulated Lula. A spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry said Beijing was ready to work with Brazil to continue building a China-Brazil community with a shared future.

US Senator and progressive politician Bernie Sanders said, “Lula has stood up for workers and democracy in Brazil, and he will continue to do so over the next four years.”