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Behind Trump’s Decision to Tax Brazil to Save Bolsonaro

Right-wing Brazilians wanted sanctions against the judge prosecuting Brazil’s former president. President Trump opted for something far bigger — tariffs.

© Doug Mills/The New York Times

President Trump said the new 50 percent tariffs on Brazilian imports would take effect on Aug. 1, just before Jair Bolsonaro, Brazil’s former president, is to stand trial.

US-Brazil Tariffs: What to Know About Trump’s History With Bolsonaro

The fight is rooted in years of political history between President Trump and the last two presidents of Brazil.

© Doug Mills/The New York Times

Then-President Jair Bolsonaro of Brazil with President Trump during a visit to the White House in 2019. In Mr. Trump’s first term, few world leaders were a more reliable ally than Mr. Bolsonaro.
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