Brazil Supreme Court Orders Bolsonaro to Stand Trial for Alleged Coup Plot

Brazil's Supreme Court has ordered former President Jair Bolsonaro to stand trial on charges of plotting a coup following his 2022 election defeat. The justices unanimously agreed to accept the charges, which include conspiracy to assassinate current President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and a Supreme Court judge, as well as attempting to violently overthrow the democratic government. Bolsonaro and seven of his close allies are accused of forming a criminal organization aimed at retaining power by any means, including an armed insurrection. If convicted, Bolsonaro, who has denied any wrongdoing and claims to be a victim of political persecution, could face a prison sentence of over 40 years. The ruling marks a significant moment in Brazil's political history as it is the first time an ex-president faces such serious charges since the country's return to democracy. Prosecutor-General Paulo Gonet highlighted that the coup plot was thwarted only by a lack of support from military leadership.