TL:DR
- U.S. removes Brazilian judge Alexandre de Moraes from its sanctions list
Thawing Relations: U.S. Lifts Sanctions on Brazilian Justice
What Happened
The United States has removed Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes from its sanctions list, which had previously labelled him for his role in the trial of former President Jair Bolsonaro.
Alongside him, his wife and the Lex Institute were also delisted. This decision was made after a discussion between President Trump and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.
Where It Happened
The lifting of sanctions was coordinated through the U.S. Treasury Office of Foreign Assets Control, affecting key political figures in Brazil.
Stakeholders – Whose Involved
Involved parties include President Trump, who criticized de Moraes for allegedly suppressing freedom of expression, and Lula, who welcomed the sanctions’ removal as a diplomatic victory.
Brazilian Minister Gleisi Hoffmann described the decision as a significant defeat for Bolsonaro’s family, claiming Lula had effectively negotiated the change.
Reaction and Fallout
The announcement has provoked mixed reactions. Eduardo Bolsonaro, son of the former president, expressed regret over the sanctions being lifted, blaming the outcome on a lack of political cohesion within Brazil.
Meanwhile, Lula’s administration claims this move marks a turning point in their foreign relations with the U.S., contrasting Bolsonaro’s alliances.
What Will Happen Next
The recent diplomatic thaw could signal a shift in U.S.-Brazil relations, with Lula aiming to enhance cooperation on various fronts, including economic policies and strategies concerning regional conflicts.
The evolving relationship will likely be monitored closely as both nations navigate their interests ahead of future electoral cycles.

