[News] Brazil police raid ex-President Bolsonaro’s home, fit ankle tag, citing flight risk concern amid criminal trial

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Brazil's former President Jair Bolsonaro is facing mounting legal pressure as the country’s Supreme Court continues its investigation into his alleged involvement in a coup plot following his 2022 election defeat. Authorities recently raided his residence and political office, and the court has ordered him to wear an electronic ankle monitor. Additionally, Bolsonaro is now prohibited from contacting foreign officials or entering embassies. These measures reflect serious concerns that he may attempt to evade justice by fleeing the country. The investigation has also uncovered that Bolsonaro and his son, Eduardo, reportedly sought assistance from foreign leaders, particularly from former U.S. President Donald Trump. Evidence suggests they lobbied for intervention to halt Bolsonaro's prosecution, a move Brazilian judicial authorities consider a violation of national sovereignty. This development has intensified the scrutiny surrounding Bolsonaro’s actions and intentions during the post-election period. In response, Donald Trump has publicly defended Bolsonaro, calling the legal proceedings a political witch hunt. Trump has also threatened to impose a steep 50% tariff on Brazilian imports, escalating tensions between the two countries. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva condemned Trump’s remarks, stating that Brazil will not be intimidated or dictated to by any foreign leader. Lula emphasized the importance of respecting Brazil’s legal system and democratic processes. The situation has sparked political backlash within Brazil. While Bolsonaro decries the court’s decisions as unjust and humiliating, critics argue that the actions are necessary to protect democracy. Lula’s administration has used the controversy to bolster its position, portraying the external pressure from Trump as an attack on national dignity. The unfolding conflict underscores not only internal divisions in Brazil but also how global political alliances are influencing domestic legal battles.

https://edition.cnn.com/2025/07/18/americas/brazil-bolsonaro-intl