the U.S. Treasury Department announced sanctions today against Alexandre de Moraes, a justice of Brazil’s Supreme Federal Court (STF), in what it described as interference in the internal affairs of an independent nation, according to the English section of webangah News Agency, citing Mehr News Agency.
The Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets control (OFAC) declared: “Today, OFAC has sanctioned Alexandre de Moraes, justice of Brazil’s Supreme Federal Court.”
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent claimed that Alexandre de Moraes has positioned himself as both judge and jury in unlawful prosecutions targeting American and Brazilian citizens and companies. Bessent accused de Moraes of leading a repressive campaign and political prosecutions including actions against former President Jair Bolsonaro.
the statement added that this move signals the Treasury Department’s continued commitment to hold accountable those who threaten U.S. interests.
Last week, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced visa cancellations for the Brazilian Supreme Court justice overseeing Bolsonaro’s prosecution.
Former President Donald Trump cited Bolsonaro’s legal troubles over alleged coup attempts as one reason behind his recent threats to impose 50 percent tariffs on Brazil.
Brazil has repeatedly stated that its judicial system is independent and will not allow Washington to interfere in its domestic affairs.
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva previously responded to Donald trump’s actions by asserting that he will take no orders from foreign powers regarding tariffs.
Lula called america’s tariff threats “unacceptable extortion” and signaled readiness for reciprocal measures.
