Brazil's Supreme Court Enforces Ankle Monitor on Bolsonaro Amid Coup Charges

In a striking move, Brazil's Supreme Court has mandated former President Jair Bolsonaro to wear an ankle monitor and remain confined to his home, following his alleged involvement in coup attempts post-election. This ruling has intensified tensions between Brazil and the United States, notably drawing comments from Donald Trump who decried the case as political persecution.

Brazil's Supreme Court delivered a significant ruling on Friday, mandating former President Jair Bolsonaro to wear an ankle monitor and remain largely confined to his residence. This decision indicates the court's concerns about the potential for Bolsonaro to flee the country ahead of his trial related to accusations of attempting a coup following his electoral defeat in 2022.

Federal police executed searches at Bolsonaro’s home early Friday morning, adhering to court directives, with media footage capturing his arrival at a government facility for the ankle monitor installation. His attorney, Paulo Cunha Bueno, confirmed the court's requirements, which also prohibit Bolsonaro from using social media and communicating with his son, Eduardo Bolsonaro, who is currently in Washington advocating for intervention from the Trump administration regarding his father's charges.

Bolsonaro's legal team expressed shock and anger over the stringent restrictions, maintaining that they have complied fully with previous court orders. This latest ruling marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between Brazilian authorities and the Trump administration, which has voiced support for Bolsonaro. On Thursday, Trump publicly criticized the charges against Bolsonaro as political persecution and threatened to impose substantial tariffs on Brazilian imports as leverage for the case's dismissal.

As developments unfold, this complex situation continues to draw international attention, with implications not only for Brazil’s political landscape but also for its relations with the United States.