Lula Cancels Russia BRICS Trip Amid Health Concerns

Brazilian President Lula da Silva canceled his Russia trip for the BRICS summit following medical advice to avoid long-haul flights due to a head injury. He will attend via videoconference, with Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira leading the Brazilian delegation.

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has canceled his trip to Russia for the BRICS summit, after medical advice suggested he should avoid long-haul travel due to a head injury. The president sustained the injury at home and will now participate in the summit via videoconference.

According to a medical report from the Sirio Libanes Hospital in Brasilia, Lula suffered a laceration to the occipital region of his head. While he was advised against long-distance flights, he remains fit for regular duties.

Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira will lead Brazil's delegation at the BRICS summit. The event, which started 15 years ago with major emerging markets Brazil, Russia, India, and China, has expanded to include South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates.

(With inputs from agencies.)