U.S. President Donald Trump announced a significant 50% tariff on Brazilian goods, escalating tensions over the trial of Brazil’s former leader Jair Bolsonaro. In a letter to President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, Trump condemned the trial as an “international disgrace,” asserting that it should not occur. This move is part of Trump’s broader strategy to secure more favorable bilateral trade agreements.

The tariff, set to take effect on August 1, marks a shift in U.S.-Brazil trade relations, as the United States typically enjoys a trade surplus with Brazil. Trump’s decision follows Brazil’s diplomatic protest after he criticized the trial of Bolsonaro, who is accused of attempting a coup to reclaim power from Lula. Bolsonaro denies involvement in any coup plot, which prosecutors claim failed due to lack of military support.

Trump’s announcement is part of a series of letters sent to various countries, including the Philippines, Sri Lanka, and South Korea, detailing new tariffs ranging from 20% to 30%. These tariffs are intended to pressure countries into negotiating more reciprocal trade agreements with the United States. The letters emphasize manufacturing within the U.S. as a means to avoid these duties and warn against retaliatory measures.

The Trump administration is under pressure to finalize more trade deals, having only secured agreements with Britain and Vietnam so far. The European Union remains a significant focus, with Trump indicating that a letter outlining new tariffs for the EU is imminent. An EU spokesperson expressed optimism about reaching an agreement soon.

In addition to country-specific tariffs, Trump has introduced sector-specific duties on steel, aluminum, and autos since his return to office. Upcoming tariffs include a 50% levy on copper and up to 200% on pharmaceuticals, with allowances for manufacturers to relocate production to the U.S.