Brazil's Supreme Court Surprised by Bolsonaro House Arrest Order, Sources Say

According to sources within Brazil's judiciary, the Supreme Court was taken aback by Justice Alexandre de Moraes's late-night decision to place former President Jair Bolsonaro under house arrest. This move highlights Moraes's willingness to act independently amid growing national polarization and escalating tensions with the United States. The timing coincides with upcoming U.S. tariffs on Brazilian imports, which President Donald Trump announced in response to alleged judicial actions against Bolsonaro, who faces charges of attempting to destabilize the 2022 election results. Bolsonaro denies any misconduct and has labeled Moraes a dictator. The decision has raised concerns within the Brazilian government that U.S. retaliation could further harm the nation's economy. However, officials indicate that the Lula administration does not plan to oppose Moraes's ruling, with support reportedly backing the justice's stance among the Supreme Court justices. President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's team is focusing on protective measures for affected industries and maintaining diplomatic dialogue with Washington. Legal experts suggest Moraes's order could complicate negotiations with the U.S...