The Economist: Donald Trump’s unprecedented attack on Brazil’s judiciary

In a striking move on July 30th, 2025, former US President Donald Trump sanctioned Alexandre de Moraes, a Brazilian Supreme Court judge, under the Global Magnitsky Act. This act freezes Moraes’ assets in US banks and bans his entry into the United States, marking an unprecedented intervention in Brazil’s judiciary.

Alexandre de Moraes is leading the prosecution against Jair Bolsonaro, Brazil’s former president and Trump’s ideological ally. This sanction signals a direct challenge to Brazil’s judicial independence and raises concerns about foreign interference in sovereign legal processes.

The US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, framed the sanctions as a warning against trampling on fundamental rights, yet the move paradoxically targets a judge upholding the rule of law. This highlights the complex geopolitical tensions between the US and Brazil amid shifting political alliances.

The Global Magnitsky Act is typically used to sanction individuals accused of human rights abuses or corruption. Applying it to a sitting judge prosecuting a former president is unprecedented and may set a controversial precedent for international legal and diplomatic relations.

This development underscores the growing trend of political figures using economic and legal tools to influence foreign judicial systems. It raises critical questions about the balance between respecting national sovereignty and addressing alleged abuses of power.

Brazil’s judiciary has faced increasing pressure amid political polarization. The sanction against Moraes could embolden Bolsonaro’s supporters and complicate Brazil’s efforts to maintain judicial independence and democratic norms.

In summary, Trump’s sanctions on Alexandre de Moraes represent a novel and contentious chapter in US-Brazil relations, reflecting broader global struggles over judicial authority, political loyalty, and international influence.