Trump warns Brazil over 'witch hunt' of Jair Bolsonaro

President Donald Trump on Monday issued a sharp warning to the Brazilian government that he would be paying close attention to ongoing legal proceedings against former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro.

Bolsonaro lost reelection in 2022 to current-and-former-President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva in a hotly contested race. The narrow margins led to an incident comparable to Jan. 6 when Bolsonaro left office, though he had notably left the country. He has been barred from seeking office until 2030 and faces charges in connection with the riots.

"Brazil is doing a terrible thing on their treatment of former President Jair Bolsonaro. I have watched, as has the World, as they have done nothing but come after him, day after day, night after night, month after month, year after year!" Trump posted on Truth Social. "He is not guilty of anything, except having fought for THE PEOPLE. I have gotten to know Jair Bolsonaro, and he was a strong Leader, who truly loved his Country — Also, a very tough negotiator on TRADE. His Election was very close and now, he is leading in the Polls."

"This is nothing more, or less, than an attack on a Political Opponent — Something I know much about! It happened to me, times 10, and now our Country is the 'HOTTEST' in the World!" he added. "The Great People of Brazil will not stand for what they are doing to their former President. I’ll be watching the WITCH HUNT of Jair Bolsonaro, his family, and thousands of his supporters, very closely. The only Trial that should be happening is a Trial by the Voters of Brazil — It’s called an Election. LEAVE BOLSONARO ALONE!"

Lula had been previously convicted of corruption and barred from seeking the presidency in 2018, when Bolsonaro won. His convictions were overturned in 2021, however, by a court with a majority of members that he or a member of his party directly appointed.