Marcia Carmo

Latin America is experiencing a possible right-wing or “blue wave,” driven either by increasingly conservative electorates or by backlash against incumbent governments. Analyst Guadalupe González argues that Donald Trump’s endorsements, tariffs and security policies destabilize elections, deepen regional fragmentation and weaken democratic legitimacy. She says Lula could learn from Claudia Sheinbaum’s “zen diplomacy”: maintain regular direct communication with Trump, segment bilateral issues, avoid public arguments and prevent Trump from becoming a central figure in Brazil’s election. González also warns that US efforts to classify Latin American criminal groups as terrorist organizations could legitimize unilateral military action and expand American legal reach, while hard-line security models such as Bukele’s threaten civil rights.

Historical political competition between Brazil and Argentina evolved into a football rivalry that is shifting as younger Brazilian fans express admiration for Lionel Messi and identify more with Latin American unity. Analysts cite Messi’s behavior, globalized club culture, and generational changes as factors softening hostility. Political roots trace back to 19th‑century disputes and the Cisplatina War, with socioeconomic perceptions also shaping attitudes over time. Recent events in the 2022 World Cup highlight growing Brazilian support for Argentina, driven by contrasts between player images and broader cultural identification.