Brazil Supreme Court Places Ex-President Bolsonaro Under House Arrest Over Coup Plot

Brazil's Supreme Court has placed former President Jair Bolsonaro under house arrest amid allegations that he orchestrated a coup attempt following the 2022 election loss. Justice Alexandre de Moraes cited Bolsonaro's violation of court orders by using his sons' social media platforms to incite attacks on the judiciary and encourage unrest, leading to the seizure of his mobile devices and restrictions on his movements and communications. Bolsonaro faces serious charges including leading an armed conspiracy, inciting violence, and assassination plots against President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and a Supreme Court justice. The legal actions have heightened tensions internationally, with the Biden administration sanctioning Justice Moraes, which was condemned by President Lula as foreign interference, while former U.S. President Donald Trump criticized the proceedings and imposed tariffs on Brazilian exports. Bolsonaro's house arrest marks a significant escalation in Brazil's political crisis, potentially resulting in up to 12 years of imprisonment if convicted. The situation underscores deep divisions within Brazil and strained relations with the United States.