50% tariff & 'witch hunt' cry: Why Trump is going all-out against Brazil
The Times of IndiaFriday, July 11, 2025 at 4:25:09 AM
Former U.S. President Donald Trump is doubling down on his aggressive trade stance, proposing a whopping 50% tariff on Brazilian imports—a move that’s sparked a fiery back-and-forth with Brazil’s left-leaning leader, President Lula. Lula fired back, calling it economic "tutelage" (basically, saying the U.S. is acting like a colonial overlord) and threatening countermeasures. Meanwhile, Trump is also jumping into Brazil’s domestic politics, defending ex-President Bolsonaro, who’s on trial for allegedly plotting a coup. Trump claims the trial is a "disgrace," framing it as a political witch hunt. Oddly, the U.S. actually runs a trade surplus with Brazil, but Trump’s citing vague "national security" concerns and copper imports as reasons for the tariffs.
Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about trade—it’s a messy mix of economics, diplomacy, and political posturing. Trump’s tariff threat could hurt Brazilian industries and escalate tensions with a key regional ally, while his vocal support for Bolsonaro adds fuel to Brazil’s already polarized politics. For Americans, it raises questions about whether Trump’s trade policies are really about protecting U.S. interests or just another front in his broader ideological battles. Either way, it’s a risky move that could backfire, economically and diplomatically.
— Curated via WP Now’s
