Trump Defends Bolsonaro: Calls for End to 'Witch Hunt' in Brazil

Trump characterized the legal actions against former Brazilian President Bolsonaro as a "witch hunt," defending him amid allegations of an attempted coup. Brazilian President Lula responded by asserting national sovereignty and the importance of rule of law.

Former US President Donald Trump has publicly criticized Brazilian authorities, calling for an end to their prosecution of ex-President Jair Bolsonaro. He accused the Brazilian government of conducting a "WITCH HUNT" against Bolsonaro, who served as president from 2019 to 2022 and is currently facing trial for allegedly plotting a coup against current President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Bolsonaro has vehemently denied any wrongdoing in connection to the accusations.

In a message shared on social media, Trump argued that Bolsonaro is "not guilty of anything, except having fought for THE PEOPLE," and insisted that prosecutors should “LEAVE BOLSONARO ALONE!” The statement from the former president has sparked a diplomatic response from Lula, who emphasized Brazil's sovereignty and declared that "no one is above the law," particularly those accused of undermining freedom and justice.

Trump, who enjoys a close relationship with Bolsonaro, commended his leadership as one characterized by love for his country. He likened Bolsonaro's current legal challenges to his own experiences during his presidency, suggesting that such judicial actions are politically motivated. Bolsonaro expressed gratitude to Trump, labeling the charges against him as blatant political persecution.

On the other hand, Minister of Institutional Affairs Gleisi Hoffmann responded to Trump's comments by asserting that Brazil is no longer subservient to the United States, hitting back at Trump to "take care of his own problems" and respect Brazil's judicial processes. This exchange occurs amidst Lula's hosting of delegations from China, Russia, and other nations at a Brics summit in Rio de Janeiro, where geopolitical tensions have sparked discussions around tariffs and economic alignments.

Bolsonaro, who was in the United States during a riot by his supporters at government buildings following Lula's inauguration, faced significant legal fallout, including a ban on holding public office until 2030 due to propagation of false information regarding Brazil's electoral integrity. He has voiced intentions of challenging this ban and vying for a comeback in the 2026 elections. As Bolsonaro prepares for court, he has labeled any coup involvement as an "abominable thing," underscoring the gravity of his legal troubles, which could lead to decades in prison if convicted.