Summary
Brazil's President Lula defended the conviction of former President Jair Bolsonaro, who was sentenced to over 27 years in prison for attempting a coup. Lula criticized U.S. President Trump's comments calling the trial a "witch hunt," and urged open dialogue about the 50% tariffs imposed by Trump on Brazilian imports. Lula emphasized the proceedings were fair, following Brazil's constitution, and rejected claims that Brazil is targeting U.S. tech firms.
Key Facts
- Jair Bolsonaro, Brazil's former president, was sentenced to 27 years and 3 months in prison for plotting a coup.
- Lula criticized Donald Trump's description of the trial as a "witch hunt."
- Trump imposed 50% tariffs on Brazilian imports, which Lula called "misguided."
- The U.S. has a $410 billion surplus in trade with Brazil over the past 15 years.
- Brazil's trial of Bolsonaro aligns with its 1988 Constitution, which restored democracy after military rule.
- Trump and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed surprise at Bolsonaro's conviction.
- Lula denied accusations that Brazil's justice system unfairly targets U.S. tech companies.
- Lula invited dialogue with the U.S. but emphasized Brazil's democracy and sovereignty are "not on the table."
