Brazil’s Supreme Court will today begin hearing closing arguments in the trial of former President Jair Bolsonaro, who is accused of orchestrating a coup to stay in power.
The verdict, expected as soon as next week, could determine the future of Brazil’s politics and economy. The former leader — who faces decades in prison if convicted — has vowed to stand in next year’s presidential election despite a ban against him running, a stance analysts believe will damage the right’s chances of returning to power.
A guilty verdict could also further strain ties with Washington, which imposed a 50% tariff rate on Brazil over what US President Donald Trump has labelled a Bolsonaro “witch hunt.”