Brazil's Bolsonaro Put Under House Arrest for Coup Plot; Lula Stands Firm Against Trump's Pressure

Brazil's Supreme Court has placed former President Jair Bolsonaro under house arrest amid charges of conspiring to overturn the 2022 election results. Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, facing recent US sanctions, issued the order after Bolsonaro allegedly violated restrictions tied to his ongoing trial for plotting a coup with allied officials. Bolsonaro is barred from using mobile phones and can receive visits only from court-approved individuals or his legal team. Authorities enforced the order at his Brasilia home, confiscating his mobile devices.

Bolsonaro and his supporters stand accused of orchestrating a movement to keep him in power after his defeat to President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. The prosecution alleges he attempted to incite violence and encouraged attacks on Brazilian democratic institutions. This case has drawn global attention, as tensions escalated when US President Donald Trump—who openly supports Bolsonaro—imposed a 50% tariff on Brazilian exports, citing alleged political persecution. Trump further sanctioned Justice Moraes, accusing him of curtailing free speech and targeting the opposition.

Responding to these aggressive US actions and threats, President Lula staunchly defended Brazil’s sovereignty. He emphasized that the country’s institutions are independent and legal proceedings against coup plotters would not be influenced by external powers, no matter how severe the economic or political pressure. Lula declared that Brazil would never accept foreign interference in its democratic processes and will act according to its own laws and interests.

Despite increased restrictions and mounting legal troubles for Bolsonaro, his supporters have intensified their protests, with large rallies in key cities. The ongoing standoff is not only a test of Brazil’s democracy but also exemplifies rising global tensions as outside governments attempt to influence internal affairs.