US Imposes 50% Tariffs on Brazil Following Bolsonaro Arrest

President Trump announced a 50% tariff on Brazilian imports starting August 1, citing Brazil's treatment of former President Jair Bolsonaro, who is on trial for allegedly plotting a coup. Trump criticized the trial as a "witch hunt" and called for its immediate end, framing it as political persecution and urging Brazil to "leave Bolsonaro alone." Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva responded firmly, asserting Brazil's sovereignty, rejecting U.S. interference, and warning that any tariff increases would be met with reciprocal measures under Brazil's Economic Reciprocity Law. Lula emphasized that judicial proceedings are a matter for Brazil's independent judiciary and should not be influenced by external threats. The dispute reflects escalating tensions between the two countries, with Trump framing Bolsonaro as a strong leader and political ally, while Bolsonaro faces significant legal challenges, including potential decades in prison if convicted. Brazilian authorities accuse Bolsonaro of inciting the January 2023 attack on government institutions, charges Bolsonaro denies, claiming political persecution.