Brazil’s Supreme Court on Friday ordered former President Jair Bolsonaro to wear an electronic ankle monitor, stay off social media, and cut ties with diplomats and political allies — including his son — amid concerns he may attempt to flee to the United States.
Federal police also carried out a search of Bolsonaro’s home as part of ongoing investigations tied to an alleged plot to overturn the results of Brazil’s 2022 election. Bolsonaro is currently on trial for allegedly orchestrating a failed coup to block President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva from taking office.
“It is a supreme humiliation,” Bolsonaro told reporters in Brasília after being fitted with the monitor. “I never thought about leaving Brazil or going to an embassy, but the court says the risk exists.”
Lawmakers from Bolsonaro’s Liberal Party confirmed the restrictions, which include a ban on speaking with his son Eduardo Bolsonaro, a federal congressman who has lobbied in Washington for U.S. support on his father’s behalf.
According to CNN Brasil, the court cited fears Bolsonaro may attempt to flee the country to avoid prosecution, particularly after he released a video on Thursday thanking former U.S. President Donald Trump for his backing.
Trump steps in
Trump, who has publicly defended Bolsonaro, escalated his rhetoric this week, threatening to impose a 50% tariff on Brazilian goods unless the trial is halted. In a letter posted to his platform Truth Social, Trump called the proceedings a “witch hunt.”
“I have seen the terrible treatment you are receiving at the hands of an unjust system,” Trump wrote. “This trial should end immediately!”
Bolsonaro’s legal team said in a statement that they were “surprised and outraged” by the Supreme Court’s “harsh precautionary measures,” but emphasized that Bolsonaro has so far complied with all court orders.
Federal police confirmed the execution of search warrants and enforcement of court-mandated restrictions but did not name Bolsonaro in their official statement.
If convicted, Bolsonaro could face up to 40 years in prison.
