SAO PAULO — Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva is currently recuperating in an intensive care unit following an unexpected surgical procedure to address a brain hemorrhage, as stated by medical professionals on Tuesday.

The surgery became necessary after the 79-year-old leader encountered complications stemming from a fall at his residence in October, according to doctors involved in his care.
Dr. Roberto Kalil from the Sirio-Libanes hospital in Sao Paulo provided updates, indicating that the president is in stable condition, communicating clearly, and eating without issues. Lula will be closely monitored for the next several days before he may be discharged, with plans to return to Brasilia at the beginning of the following week. However, he is not expected to engage in any official duties during this observation period.
Lula was transported from Brasilia to Sao Paulo early Tuesday morning for his treatment, a distance of approximately 1,000 kilometers (620 miles). Medical staff noted that his wife is by his side but no additional visitors have been permitted.
Following the incident that caused his fall, Lula was forced to cancel a trip to Russia for a BRICS summit. His office confirmed that the fall resulted in a visible laceration on the back of his head, situated just above the neck.
Messages of support and encouragement have poured in, including those from Portugal’s President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, who expressed his hope for Lula’s swift recovery. Similarly, Colombian President Gustavo Petro shared his good wishes on social media, referring to Lula as a “comrade.” The White House has also extended its best wishes for the president’s recovery. Notably, President Joe Biden and Lula had a chance to meet during a gathering of the Group of 20 leaders in Rio de Janeiro in November.