(Analysis) U.S. President Donald Trump’s criticism of Brazil’s prosecution of former president Jair Bolsonaro has unexpectedly shifted the country’s political debate.

Trump called the charges against Bolsonaro unfair and politically motivated, urging Brazil to “leave Bolsonaro alone.” He compared Bolsonaro’s legal troubles to his own, drawing a direct line between the two leaders.

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva responded quickly and firmly. Lula stated that Brazil’s democracy and legal system are for Brazilians to decide. He stressed that no one stands above the law and that Brazil’s institutions remain strong and independent.

Bolsonaro is on trial before Brazil’s Supreme Court, accused of trying to overturn the 2022 election and undermine democracy. Prosecutors allege he and his supporters incited riots and plotted violence. Bolsonaro denies all charges.

Trump’s intervention did not help Bolsonaro as much as his supporters hoped. Data from Real Time Big Data shows Lula’s response to Trump’s criticism drew over one million views in five hours, with more than half of the reactions positive—well above Lula’s usual engagement.

Trump’s Moves Put Brazil’s Election and Economy in the Balance. (Photo Internet reproduction)

Analysts note that Trump’s attack allowed Lula to appear as a defender of Brazil’s sovereignty against foreign pressure, energizing his base and attracting undecided voters.

Trump’s Moves Put Brazil’s Election and Economy in the Balance

The situation escalated as Trump threatened new tariffs on imports from Brazil and other BRICS countries. Lula dismissed these threats, insisting Brazil would continue to make its own decisions.

At the BRICS summit in Rio de Janeiro, China and Russia supported Brazil’s stance. Brazil’s Supreme Court made clear that Trump’s comments would not affect the trial.

The court stated it would not respond to foreign political statements, reinforcing the independence of Brazil’s judiciary. Trump now faces a choice that could shape Brazil’s future.

Trump Calls Brazil’s Treatment of Bolsonaro “Terrible” as Legal Pressure Mounts

If he escalates with harsh economic measures—such as strict tariffs—he could hurt Brazil’s economy, affecting jobs, exports, and investment. Economic hardship could make Brazilians fearful.

This may possibly turn voters away from Lula and toward a conservative candidate promising stability and closer U.S. ties. If Trump continues with public criticism but avoids real economic pressure, he risks boosting Lula’s popularity instead.

By attacking Brazil’s institutions, Trump gives Lula the chance to stand up for national pride and independence, drawing support even from those who normally oppose him.

Trump’s strategy will influence not just Brazil’s next president, but also the broader relationship between the two countries and the direction of Latin America’s largest economy. The outcome will affect trade, investment, and political stability for years to come.