Eduardo Bolsonaro's STF trial proceeds amid US sanctions plea

On 15‑16 June 2026 Brazil’s Supreme Court (STF) will hear a criminal action against former deputy Eduardo Bolsonaro (PL‑SP). The Prosecutor General’s Office accuses him of coercion in the legal process, alleging that he sought to pressure the United States to impose sanctions and tariffs on Brazil and to apply the U.S. Magnitsky Act against Justice Minister Alexandre de Moraes. Bolsonaro, who has lived in the United States since February 2025, posted on X urging President Donald Trump to reinstate sanctions, writing that “the Supreme Court of Brazil is preparing to condemn me in retaliation against President Trump” and that “the reinstatement of sanctions against the human‑rights violator Alexandre de Moraes is necessary and urgent.”

The defence, represented by the Defensoria Pública da União, asked the STF to postpone the hearing, arguing that the First Chamber is operating with a vacant seat and could face a tie vote. Minister Alexandre de Moraes rejected the request, stating that the court meets the quorum requirement of three ministers. The trial, scheduled for 16 June, will be conducted by the First Chamber composed of ministers Alexandre de Moraes (relator), Flávio Dino, Cármen Lúcia and Cristiano Zanin. A conviction could carry a prison term of one to four years and render Bolsonaro ineligible for public office.