On August 4, Brazil’s Supreme Court ordered former President Jair Bolsonaro to be placed under house arrest as he awaits trial for allegedly orchestrating a coup attempt. The decision highlights the judiciary’s determination to proceed with the case despite rising tensions with the United States, where President Donald Trump has responded with new tariffs and sanctions.
The arrest order was issued by Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, who himself was sanctioned by the US Treasury last week. De Moraes said Bolsonaro ignored previous restraining orders meant to stop him from seeking Trump’s interference in the case.
Bolsonaro faces charges that he and his allies conspired to violently challenge the results of Brazil’s 2022 presidential election. Trump has publicly condemned the case, calling it a “witch hunt,” and announced that a 50% tariff on Brazilian goods will take effect on August 6 in response to what he views as political persecution.
With the dispute escalating and the tariff deadline nearing, what are the issues at play here, and how much is at stake? Click through this gallery for a better understanding of the reasons behind this very public trade war.