Trump Backs Bolsonaro Amid Brazil Arrest, Imposes 50% Tariffs

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a public letter supporting ex-Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, demanding an end to Bolsonaro’s criminal trial and denouncing Brazil's leftist government for alleged persecution of conservatives and suppression of free speech. In response to ongoing legal actions against Bolsonaro, Trump announced a 50% tariff on Brazilian imports, a move criticized by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva as 'unacceptable blackmail' and met with widespread protests in Brazil. Bolsonaro was recently arrested, fitted with a monitoring anklet, and faces significant restrictions as Brazil's Supreme Court proceeds with charges related to an alleged coup attempt. Bolsonaro’s son, Senator Flávio Bolsonaro, urged Trump to lift the tariffs and instead target specific officials with sanctions, arguing that broad tariffs unfairly harm ordinary Brazilians and trade relations. Lula’s government maintains that Brazil’s judiciary is independent and condemned domestic politicians supporting Trump’s pressure tactics as 'traitors to the homeland.' Business and civil society leaders in both countries warn that the tariffs could destabilize vital trade ties and increase economic uncertainty.