Brazilian president vows to veto bill cutting Jair Bolsonaro’s prison term

Farmers in France have blocked roads in protest against the EU-Mercosur trade deal, fearing that an influx of cheaper agricultural products from Brazil and its neighbors will undermine their livelihoods. This protest coincides with an EU leaders meeting where the deal is set to be discussed.

Brazil's Senate has passed a bill that could significantly reduce former President Jair Bolsonaro's prison sentence from 27 years to just over two years for his involvement in a coup plot. This bill follows prior approval by the lower house and now awaits President Lula's decision, who has the option to veto it, although Congress could override such a veto.

Venezuela has dismissed the impact of a U.S. blockade on its crude oil exports, asserting that operations continue as normal despite President Trump's announcement. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has offered to mediate between the U.S. and Venezuela to prevent armed conflict, with the UN Security Council scheduled to discuss the escalating situation next week.

Brazilian President Lula has urged the European Union to finalize the long-stalled EU-Mercosur trade deal, warning that Brazil may withdraw from the agreement if it is not signed soon. The deal faces opposition from France and Italy, who are concerned about the impact on their agricultural sectors, while Germany and Spain advocate for its approval, citing potential benefits for EU exports.

Hundreds of farmers protested in Brussels against the EU-Mercosur trade deal, blocking roads and disrupting an EU summit. The farmers argue that the deal threatens their livelihoods by allowing cheaper agricultural imports from Brazil and its neighbors. Brazil's President Lula emphasized the urgency of signing the deal, warning that delays could jeopardize Brazil's participation.

Farmers in Brussels blocked roads and clashed with police during a protest against the EU-Mercosur trade deal, expressing concerns over the potential influx of cheaper agricultural products from Brazil that could threaten their livelihoods. The protest coincided with a European Union leaders' summit, highlighting the urgency of their grievances.

Brazil's Senate has approved a bill that could significantly reduce the prison sentence of former President Jair Bolsonaro, who was convicted for his alleged involvement in a coup plot following his electoral defeat in 2022. The legislation could shorten his 27-year sentence to just over two years, pending further approval from the Senate.