Bolsonaro Under House Arrest Amid Alleged Coup Plot and Trade Tensions

Brazil's Supreme Court has ordered house arrest for former President Jair Bolsonaro, who faces trial for allegedly orchestrating a coup to remain in office post-2022 election loss. His arrest has been linked to US-Brazil trade tensions, with President Trump denouncing the proceedings as a 'witch hunt.'

Brazil's Supreme Court has placed former President Jair Bolsonaro under house arrest amid allegations of orchestrating a coup to retain power following his 2022 election defeat. The trial, overseen by Justice Alexandre de Moraes, has captured national attention as tension escalates between Brazil and the United States, with President Donald Trump declaring the proceedings a 'witch hunt.'

The court alleges Bolsonaro violated imposed measures by using his sons to spread contentious content. His lawyers argue this communication was innocuous, stating Bolsonaro's comments during a protest in Rio were not criminal. In response to recent developments, Bolsonaro plans to appeal the decision.

Amidst this legal turmoil, trade relations are strained, with Trump introducing a hefty tariff on Brazilian imports. The case has ignited nationalist fervor in Brazil, with public demonstrations both supporting and opposing Bolsonaro. As tensions rise, speculation grows over the implications for Brazil's future political landscape.

(With inputs from agencies.)