Trump Announces 50% Tariff on Brazil Citing Political Reasons
U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a 50% tariff on Brazil, holding the country responsible for not being 'good' for the U.S. and accusing it of launching 'attacks' on U.S. tech companies. The move is seen as a direct reaction to the trial of Brazil's former president, Jair Bolsonaro, whom Trump openly supports.
Background
Trump's decision to impose the hefty tariff on Brazil marks a significant shift in his stance towards a country whose right-wing politicians celebrated his election victory. The tariff is set to come into effect from August, as per a letter addressed to Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva published on Trump's Truth Social page.
Details and Developments
Trump's letter to President Lula da Silva outlines the new tariff level and cites the treatment of Jair Bolsonaro as the primary reason for the action. The former populist leader of Brazil is currently under trial for an alleged coup attempt, a situation that Trump has referred to as an 'international tragedy'. He also called on authorities to drop charges against Bolsonaro, branding the trial a 'witch hunt'.
According to Folha de S.Paulo, Trump squarely places the blame for the tariff on the Bolsonaros. He accuses Jair Bolsonaro of orchestrating a coup, leading the looting of buildings of the three Powers, and allegedly predicting the imprisonment and death of authorities. The tariff announcement has sparked a social media war in Brazil, with leftists blaming Bolsonaro's influence on Trump's decision, while the right-wing supporters attribute it to the 'Lula/Moraes cost'.
Implications and Reactions
The sudden 50% tariff on Brazil has sent shockwaves through global markets, with copper prices in the U.S. hitting a record high. The latest escalation in the trade war is expected to significantly impact costs across key parts of the U.S. economy.
In Brazil, the tariff announcement has triggered a fierce polarization on social media. While Bolsonaro supporters see it as a consequence of the 'Lula/Moraes cost', critics of the former president view it as the 'Bolsonaro cost'.
President Lula da Silva, on the other hand, has criticized Trump's defense of Bolsonaro, calling it an unwarranted interference in the political and judicial affairs of a friendly nation.
Conclusion
As the world anticipates the implementation of the new tariff level in August, tensions remain high between the U.S. and Brazil. Trump's support for Bolsonaro, coupled with his new tariff policy, indicates a complex and challenging phase in U.S.-Brazil relations. The trial of Bolsonaro continues to be a contentious issue, with its outcome likely to have further implications on the diplomatic ties between the two nations.