The provided text discusses a letter from Donald Trump to the Brazilian government, expressing his support for former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro and criticizing the Brazilian judiciary. Here’s a breakdown of the key points:
Trump’s Message:
Trump hopes the Brazilian government will “change its course,” stop “attacking political opponents,” and end its “ridiculous regime of censorship.”
He published this message on his social network, Truth social, reinforcing his belief that Bolsonaro is a victim of judicial persecution.
Bolsonaro’s Legal Situation:
Bolsonaro is a defendant in a criminal case before the Supremo Tribunal Federal (STF) in Brazil.
The inquiry concerns an attempted coup d’état, the violent abolition of the democratic rule of law, and criminal organization.
The Attorney General’s Office alleges bolsonaro led an armed criminal organization to discredit the electoral system and incite attacks on democratic institutions.
The STF trial is in its final phase, but no date has been set.
Context of Commercial Tension:
Trump’s letter comes amidst commercial tensions between the US and Brazil.
Trump has linked US trade decisions, specifically a surcharge on Brazilian products, to Brazil’s internal political and judicial issues.
He has called the lawsuit against Bolsonaro a “witch hunt” and suggested potential new sanctions.Brazilian Government’s Reaction:
Vice President Geraldo Alckmin stated there is no connection between judicial matters and tariffs, emphasizing Brazil’s commitment to the separation of powers.
Minister of Institutional Relations Gleisi Hoffmann called Trump’s letter “blackmail against Brazil,” viewing it as an attempt to impose political conditions for lifting economic sanctions, which she considers an attack on Brazilian sovereignty.
bolsonaro’s Response:
Bolsonaro publicly thanked Trump, reading excerpts from the letter on social media. He claimed the STF process is an attempt to “dwell the biggest right-wing leadership in South america.”
Lula Government’s Efforts:
The current Lula government is attempting to open a dialogue with Washington.
A letter was sent to the White house offering to negotiate commercial issues,but there has been no formal response from the US.
Potential future Negotiations:
sources close to Trump suggest he is not currently inclined to speak directly with Lula but does not rule out future negotiations.
