President Donald Trump has imposed sanctions on Brazilian Supreme Federal Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, the lead judge in a controversial criminal case against former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro.
The Treasury Department announced the sanctions Wednesday, accusing De Moraes of authorizing “arbitrary” detentions, censoring political speech, and carrying out politically motivated prosecutions.
The move follows Trump’s threat earlier this month to impose a 50% tariff on Brazilian goods if the Bolsonaro trial continued.
“Alexandre de Moraes has taken it upon himself to be judge and jury in an unlawful witch hunt against U.S. and Brazilian citizens and companies,” Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said.
Bessent said De Moraes is behind a campaign of censorship, political targeting, and human rights violations.
“Today’s action makes clear that Treasury will continue to hold accountable those who threaten U.S. interests and the freedoms of our citizens,” he said.
Trump has long described the Bolsonaro prosecution as “unjust” and politically driven.
He sent Bolsonaro a letter earlier this month offering support and condemning the trial, per Fox News.
The sanctions freeze all assets and property De Moraes holds within the United States or in the hands of any U.S. person. Any company or financial institution working