Brazil’s President, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, recently defended the trial of his predecessor, Jair Bolsonaro. Bolsonaro was sentenced to over 27 years in prison for plotting a coup. In a New York Times opinion piece, Lula criticized U.S. President Donald Trump’s claim that the trial was a “witch hunt.” Lula called the verdict a significant step for Brazil’s democracy.
Lula wrote to encourage dialogue with Trump, especially amid rising tensions between the U.S. and Brazil. He challenged Trump’s recent 50% tariffs on Brazilian imports, labeling them as “misguided” and “illogical.” Lula pointed out that the U.S. had enjoyed a $410 billion trade surplus with Brazil over the last 15 years, suggesting that the tariffs were politically motivated.
He also mentioned the Magnitsky Act, which the U.S. has used to sanction a Brazilian Supreme Court justice involved in the Bolsonaro trial. In the ruling, four out of five Supreme Court justices found Bolsonaro guilty on all charges. His lawyers plan to appeal the decision.
Trump expressed surprise at the verdict, and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated the U.S. would “respond accordingly.” However, Lula insisted the trial was conducted fairly, rooted in Brazil’s 1988 Constitution, established after two decades of military rule. He reminded readers that Brazil regained its democracy in 1985 after years of dictatorship.
Lula dismissed accusations that Brazil targeted U.S. tech firms, affirming that the courts had a right to regulate the internet. He emphasized that Brazil would welcome negotiations that offer mutual benefits but made it clear that Brazil’s democracy and sovereignty are non-negotiable.
This case underscores a wider narrative about governance and accountability in Latin America. As political landscapes shift, historical events remind us how vital democratic structures are. The balance between political interests and the rule of law continues to challenge many countries today.
For more insights, you can read Lula’s full piece here.
