Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro is the target of a Federal Police operation this Friday (18). In addition to facing charges for allegedly leading a coup attempt, he is also under investigation in other ongoing cases.
Here are the measures taken against Bolsonaro and what he’s being accused of:
Electronic Ankle Monitor and No Social Media
Bolsonaro must wear an electronic ankle monitor, by order of the Supreme Federal Court (STF). According to Folha’s Mônica Bergamo column, he is also banned from using social media and from contacting his son Eduardo Bolsonaro, who is in the U.S. He must remain under house arrest from 7 PM to 7 AM and on weekends.
Secret Proceeding Following Tariff Announcement
The decision comes as Bolsonaro’s movement grows closer to Donald Trump. The sealed proceeding that led to the restrictions was filed in the Supreme Court two days after Trump announced the 50% tariff on Brazilian products, directly citing Bolsonaro.
Another Blow After Trump’s Move
The Federal Police action marks another setback for Bolsonaro. Right-wing governors who praised Trump and criticized Lula have shifted tone, acknowledging the harmful impact of the tariff. A Genial/Quaest poll released this week shows that 72% of Brazilians believe Trump was wrong to impose tariffs due to Bolsonaro.
Bolsonaro Denies Responsibility for Tariff
A day before the PF operation, Bolsonaro denied any blame for Trump’s decision. He thanked God for the election of his U.S. ally and blamed Lula’s government for the trade and political standoff.
Targeted Again by Federal Police
This is not the first time Bolsonaro has been targeted. In February 2024, the PF executed arrest and search warrants against former ministers and military officers linked to the coup plot. Bolsonaro himself had to hand over his passport within 24 hours.
What Are the Charges Against Bolsonaro?
As president, Bolsonaro openly made coup-threatening statements, questioned the 2022 election’s legitimacy, defied STF rulings, and spread misinformation to undermine Brazil’s electoral system.
After losing to Lula, he encouraged pro-coup camps that led to the January 8 attacks. He publicly admitted meeting with military and advisers to explore ways to intervene in the TSE and annul the election. A nostalgic defender of the 1964–1985 military dictatorship, he has been convicted by the electoral court and indicted by the Supreme Court. He is currently barred from running for office until at least 2030.
