Tensions seem to be increasing in the relations between the US and Brazil. US President Donald Trump announced a 50% tariff on all imports from Brazil through a social media post on Wednesday. This move is going to increase trade tensions on one hand
On the other hand, it is also being seen as Trump’s anger against the ongoing lawsuits against former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro. US President Donald Trump on Wednesday announced a 50 percent tariff on all Brazilian products from August 1, He also called the trial of former President Jair Bolsonaro a ‘witch hunt’ and an ‘international disgrace’. President Lula da Silva is furious after this decision by the US.
He has clearly said that we will not bow down to any external pressure and has also threatened reciprocal tariffs. Donald Trump claimed Brazil had a “very unfair trade relationship” with the US and accused it of “constant attacks” against American companies in digital trade. He said, ‘We will no longer tolerate one-sided trade and political persecution against our friends.’
Trump wrote in a letter to the Brazilian President, ‘I knew and worked with former President Jair Bolsonaro, and respected him greatly, as did the leaders of most other countries. Brazil’s former President Bolsonaro, who was a highly respected leader around the world, even in the US, during his tenure. The way he has been treated is a disgrace internationally. This trial should not happen.’
Brazilian President Lula Silva responded strongly to Trump’s threat by posting on Twitter: “Brazil is a sovereign country with independent institutions. We do not accept any external pressure or threat.” He stressed that the trial related to the coup plot against Jair Bolsonaro is completely under the Brazilian judicial system and there is no scope for any external interference in it.