‘Brazil is a sovereign country’: Lula hits back after Trump imposes 50% tariffs over Bolsonaro ‘witch hunt’ trial

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday announced a steep 50 per cent import tax on goods from Brazil, explicitly linking the decision to the ongoing trial of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro. In a post shared on Truth Social, Trump slammed the legal proceedings against his political ally, calling it a “Witch Hunt” and demanding it be stopped “immediately.”

Trump’s move departs from his usual trade stance. While he posted 22 letters to various countries this week including Japan, South Korea, and Sri Lanka announcing new tariffs effective August 1, the letter to Brazil notably departed from the standard template. It directly cited Bolsonaro’s trial as the reason behind the tariff hike.

Also Read:Trump Tariff Letters Explained | 14 countries face US trade pressure by August 1—A country-wise breakdown

Lula responds: ‘Brazil is sovereign’

Reacting to Trump’s announcement, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva issued a sharp response, invoking the country’s economic reciprocity law. Under this provision, Brazil can suspend trade, investment, and intellectual property agreements with nations that harm its global competitiveness.

“Brazil is a sovereign country with independent institutions that will not accept being taken for granted by anyone,” Lula declared. He also defended the legitimacy of Bolsonaro’s trial and said Brazil’s legal system is beyond foreign interference.

Bolsonaro on trial, Trump draws parallels

Bolsonaro is currently on trial in Brazil over accusations he attempted to overturn his 2022 election loss, charges that have already led to his disqualification from public office until 2030. In June, he appeared before the Supreme Court, and hearings involving 26 other defendants are set to follow. A verdict could come as early as September.

Trump, who himself faces charges over his efforts to overturn the 2020 US election, has repeatedly shown solidarity with Bolsonaro. The two shared close ties during their presidencies, including meetings at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in 2020.

Also Read:Donald Trump warns of 10% duty on BRICS nations ‘pretty soon’ 

Trade history and political undercurrents

Lula, in his statement, pointed out that the United States has enjoyed a trade surplus of more than $410 billion with Brazil over the past 15 years. Analysts suggest Trump’s tariffs are less about trade imbalances and more a reflection of personal loyalty and political grievance.

Bolsonaro has not directly addressed Trump’s tariff announcement but posted online that he is being “politically persecuted.” Lula, meanwhile, stood firm on Brazil’s judicial independence: “Proceedings against those who planned the coup d’etat is a competence of the Brazilian judiciary and is not subject to interference or threats.”