In a significant move that underscores the political tensions between Brazil and the United States, Brazil’s Supreme Court has mandated former President Jair Bolsonaro to wear an ankle monitor and impose restrictions on his movement and communication. This directive comes amidst concerns that he may attempt to flee before facing trial for alleged coup attempts following the 2022 elections.
Bolsonaro Faces Court Restrictions Amid Controversy with Trump

Bolsonaro Faces Court Restrictions Amid Controversy with Trump
Brazil's Supreme Court imposes strict measures on former President Jair Bolsonaro as Trump intervenes.
Brazil's Supreme Court recently mandated that Jair Bolsonaro, the erstwhile president, be fitted with an ankle monitor and adhere to strict home confinement hours. This ruling, intended to prevent him from fleeing ahead of his upcoming trial, coincides with ongoing political tensions involving President Trump, who has publicly accused the Brazilian authorities of political persecution against Bolsonaro.
As per the court's orders, Bolsonaro is prohibited from visiting foreign embassies and is required to stay away from social media platforms and direct communication with his son, Eduardo Bolsonaro, who is reportedly in the U.S. advocating for intervention from the Trump administration. His attorney, Paulo Cunha Bueno, expressed shock and concern over these severe restrictions, given Bolsonaro's previous compliance with judicial requests.
This latest ruling marks an escalation in the ongoing contention between Brazilian officials and the Trump administration over Bolsonaro's legal challenges. Just a day prior, Trump posted a letter online voicing his support for Bolsonaro and criticizing the charges against him as politically motivated, while also threatening to impose significant tariffs on Brazilian imports if the situation does not resolve favorably for the former president.
As events unfold, this story continues to develop and highlights the complex interplay between Brazilian politics and international relations.
Jack Nicas serves as The Times' Brazil bureau chief, focusing on the intricate developments throughout South America.
As per the court's orders, Bolsonaro is prohibited from visiting foreign embassies and is required to stay away from social media platforms and direct communication with his son, Eduardo Bolsonaro, who is reportedly in the U.S. advocating for intervention from the Trump administration. His attorney, Paulo Cunha Bueno, expressed shock and concern over these severe restrictions, given Bolsonaro's previous compliance with judicial requests.
This latest ruling marks an escalation in the ongoing contention between Brazilian officials and the Trump administration over Bolsonaro's legal challenges. Just a day prior, Trump posted a letter online voicing his support for Bolsonaro and criticizing the charges against him as politically motivated, while also threatening to impose significant tariffs on Brazilian imports if the situation does not resolve favorably for the former president.
As events unfold, this story continues to develop and highlights the complex interplay between Brazilian politics and international relations.
Jack Nicas serves as The Times' Brazil bureau chief, focusing on the intricate developments throughout South America.