Brazil's former President Jair Bolsonaro has been placed under house arrest by the Supreme Court due to his alleged involvement in an attempted coup following his 2022 electoral defeat. The court's decision comes after accusations that Bolsonaro violated court-imposed restrictions, continuing to influence political discourse through social media channels, often indirectly via his allies. As part of his house arrest, Bolsonaro must adhere to strict conditions, including wearing an electronic ankle monitor and observing a nightly curfew.
The ruling has sparked significant political tension both domestically and internationally. Bolsonaro's son, Flávio, condemned the court's decision, suggesting it signifies a shift towards dictatorship in Brazil. Meanwhile, former US President Donald Trump has criticized the ruling, labeling it a 'witch hunt' and responding by imposing tariffs on Brazilian goods. This has further strained relations between Brazil and the United States, with Bolsonaro's supporters viewing Trump as a defender of democracy. The legal proceedings against Bolsonaro are ongoing, as the investigation into his alleged coup plot and its implications for Brazil's political landscape continue to unfold.
