Former U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a 50 percent tariff on Brazilian imports, effective August 1. This move comes as Trump continues to criticize the ongoing trial of Brazil’s former president, Jair Bolsonaro, calling it a “witch hunt” and an “international disgrace.” In a direct message to Brazil’s current leader, President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, Trump expressed strong disapproval of how Bolsonaro is being treated and argued that the trial should not be taking place at all.
Trump also revealed that Washington will open a formal investigation into Brazil’s trade practices. The decision to impose tariffs marks a sharp turn, as Brazil had not previously been on the list of countries facing trade penalties despite the U.S. running a trade deficit with it.
Tensions have grown since Brazil summoned the U.S. charge d’affaires following Trump’s earlier criticism of the legal case against Bolsonaro. Brazilian prosecutors claim Bolsonaro was part of a failed attempt to regain power through a coup, though he denies any involvement, insisting he had no military support.
Trump has repeatedly defended Bolsonaro on social media, urging Brazilian officials to “leave Bolsonaro alone.” Announcing the new tariff measure, Trump accused Brazil of undermining democratic elections and warned of further action if Brazil responds with retaliation.
