Brasilia/IBNS, Oct. 26 -- Leftist leader Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has asserted Brazil's national sovereignty in an apparent swipe at the United States after winning a fourth, non-consecutive term as President, declaring that the Latin American nation would not be treated as anyone's backyard.

At 80, Lula defeated Flavio, the eldest son of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, by more than three percentage points in the presidential runoff held on October 25.

Lula secured 51.79% of the valid votes, ahead of Flavio Bolsonaro, who received 48.21%, according to Brazil's Superior Electoral Court.

Lula's victory is significant as he overcame a first-round deficit against Bolsonaro amid concerns over rising living costs and lingering po...