Trump Urges Brazil to Halt Bolsonaro's Prosecution Amid Coup Allegations

The tensions highlight the ongoing political feud as Bolsonaro contests legal challenges and seeks political revival.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has called on Brazilian authorities to cease their legal proceedings against former President Jair Bolsonaro, labeling the actions a "WITCH HUNT." Bolsonaro, who served as Brazil's president from 2019 to 2022, is currently facing trial for his alleged role in a coup attempt against the incumbent President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. He has consistently denied any wrongdoing regarding the accusations.

In a post on social media, Trump defended Bolsonaro, asserting that he is "not guilty of anything, except having fought for THE PEOPLE," and urged the Brazilian judiciary to "LEAVE BOLSONARO ALONE!" Lula has responded robustly, emphasizing Brazil's sovereignty and rejecting foreign interference or directives regarding its legal processes. "No one is above the law. Especially those that threaten freedom and the rule of law," he expressed in a message.

Trump again emphasized his belief in Bolsonaro's integrity, calling him a "strong leader" who has demonstrated love for his country. He likened Bolsonaro's plight to his own legal tribulations, stating, "This is nothing more, or less, than an attack on a Political Opponent - Something I know much about! It happened to me, times 10."

Bolsonaro expressed gratitude for Trump's support, framing the accusations against him as blatant political persecution. Minister of Institutional Affairs Gleisi Hoffmann sharply rebuffed Trump's interference, stating that Brazil's relationship with the U.S. has changed since Bolsonaro's presidency, urging Trump to focus on his domestic challenges.

These developments coincide with Brazil hosting a BRICS summit in Rio de Janeiro, where Lula met with representatives from countries like China and Russia. Previously, Trump threatened additional tariffs against nations favoring what he termed the bloc's "anti-American" stance.

Historically, Trump and Bolsonaro enjoyed a cordial relationship, exemplified by their meeting in the White House in 2019. Both leaders faced electoral defeats and have yet to acknowledge their losses publicly. Following Lula's inauguration in January 2023, significant unrest ensued as supporters of Bolsonaro stormed government buildings in an alleged coup attempt, a claim Bolsonaro vehemently denies.

Bolsonaro has been barred from seeking public office until 2030 due to unfounded assertions regarding the integrity of Brazil's electoral system, but he aims to challenge this ban and seek re-election in 2026. In court, he recently described plotting a coup as "abominable," facing the prospect of lengthy imprisonment if found guilty.