US President Donald Trump escalated his spat with Brazil by announcing his intention to slap a 50% tariff on items manufactured in the South American nation. In his most recent tariff letter, which was circulated on social media, he revealed the intention.
Trump charges Brazil with “attacks” on American tech firms and a “witch hunt” against former far-right leader Jair Bolsonaro, who is being prosecuted for allegedly being involved in a scheme to rig the 2022 election.
Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, the President of Brazil, responded on social media, stating that a rise in tariffs on Brazil would be matched and cautioning against meddling in the country’s legal system.
Earlier in the week, Trump and Lula also argued about Bolsonaro’s trial. Lula stated at the time that “interference” from anyone would not be tolerated in Brazil and that “no one is above the law.”
Trump also said on Wednesday that the 50% duty he had imposed earlier this week on imports of copper will take effect on August 1. In a social media post, he claimed that national security considerations were the reason behind the decision.
This week, Trump sent 22 letters to nations worldwide, including trading partners such as South Korea, Japan, and Sri Lanka, describing additional taxes on their commodities that he claims will take effect on August 1.
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