Trump Targets Brazil With Tariffs Over Bolsonaro Trial

President Donald Trump announced a 50% tariff on imports from Brazil, explicitly connecting the move to Brazil's prosecution of former President Jair Bolsonaro, whom Trump accused of being targeted by a political 'witch hunt.' Trump called on Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva to stop the trial, but Lula rejected this interference and warned of reciprocal tariffs under Brazil's Economic Reciprocity Law. The dispute has sparked urgent cabinet meetings in Brazil and raised the prospect of escalating trade tensions between the countries, with experts warning of likely impacts including higher U.S. food prices. The Trump administration claims the new 50% tariff on copper is necessary for national security, but critics warn it could hurt consumers and strain international relations. Trump’s tariff threats also extend to other countries. Despite Trump's assertions, data indicates the U.S. runs a trade surplus with Brazil.