**Trump Proposes 50% Tariff on Brazil, Criticizes Bolsonaro's Legal Troubles**

The recent letter by Trump has sparked retaliatory threats from Brazilian leaders and undermines diplomatic relations.

In a dramatic escalation of tensions between the United States and Brazil, U.S. President Donald Trump has announced intentions to impose a staggering 50% tariff on goods imported from Brazil. This drastic measure aims to counter what Trump claims are "attacks" by the Brazilian government on U.S. technology companies and allegations of a "witch hunt" against former president Jair Bolsonaro, who is currently facing prosecution for an alleged coup attempt following the 2022 elections.

In a social media statement, Trump outlined the intended tariffs as part of a letter that suggests increasing economic pressure on Brazil would be necessary to remedy "grave injustices" he associates with the current regime. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva quickly responded, vowing that any tariff hike would lead to reciprocal actions against U.S. goods and defending Brazil's independence from foreign judicial interference.

Through his recent tariff declaration, Trump is reviving a series of measures he had planned earlier in the year but was forced to postpone due to backlash in the financial markets. While a 10% tariff on Brazilian imports was previously indicated, this new proposal marks a significant escalation. Alongside Brazil, Trump has sent similar tariff notices to other countries, including Japan and South Korea, which are set to take effect on August 1.

The U.S. has historically experienced a trade surplus with Brazil, selling more than it imports. Trump's strategy includes launching a so-called 301 investigation into Brazil's digital trade practices, potentially leading to further tariffs based on established legal frameworks that have been used against other nations before. He accuses Brazil of censoring U.S. social media platforms and undermining free expressive rights, particularly in relation to major tech companies like his own, Truth Social.

Bolsonaro's ongoing trial, which critics have likened to a political driven judicial process, draws Trump's ire, as he openly supports his former ally and denounces the legal procedures as an "international disgrace." The ties between Trump and Bolsonaro were historically strong, with the two leaders enjoying camaraderie during their overlapping presidential terms.

In related comments, Trump has voiced disdain for the Brics group, which includes Brazil, labeling it as "anti-American" and suggesting that member nations would incur additional tariffs. In a pointed rejoinder, President Lula expressed that the diplomatic landscape has shifted and asserted that Brazil would not tolerate external impositions of power.

As Trump continues to assert his position, the international community watches closely as both U.S.-Brazil relations and broader global trade dynamics hang in the balance.