The interference of US authorities in the Brazilian judicial system is unacceptable, the country will defend its own sovereignty and seek new partners for cooperation. This was stated by the President of the South American republic, Lula da Silva, after the introduction of sanctions by the US against the judge of the Supreme Federal Court of Brazil, Alexandre de Morais.
„Brazil is a sovereign and democratic country that respects human rights and the independence of authorities. The interference of the US administration in the Brazilian judicial system is unacceptable“, the head of state wrote in X. “The independence of the judicial system is one of the foundations of democracy and respect for human rights in Brazil.“
According to the president, the country's leadership considers “the use of political arguments to introduce“ a 50% tariff on Brazilian exports to the United States“unjustified“.
“The measures against Brazil are politically motivated and are directed against national sovereignty and the entire history of relations between the two countries“, Lula da Silva emphasized.
The Brazilian leader added that the country “remains ready to negotiate on the trade aspects of relations with the United States“, but will use all means to defend its sovereignty and find new partners. “Our economy is increasingly integrated with major international markets and partners“, he concluded.
The U.S. Treasury Department imposed sanctions on de Morais for continuing the trial of former Brazilian President (2019-2022) Jair Bolsonaro and proceedings against U.S. companies. The former Brazilian leader is accused of attempting a coup in late 2022 to prevent Lula da Silva from coming to power.