The ‘Trump factor’ in Bolsonaro’s trial – and the consequences of a potential conviction

The trial of former President Jair Bolsonaro (PL) by the Supreme Federal Court (STF), in an action investigating his alleged involvement in an attempted coup, comes at a time of deepening crisis between Brazil and the United States. Scheduled to begin on Tuesday (2/9), the trial is a domestic issue, but the shadow of American President Donald Trump looms over the case, according to experts. Political scientists interviewed by BBC News Brasil also suggest that an unfavorable outcome for the former president could further exacerbate the strain on the relationship with the US and possibly lead to additional retaliatory measures by the White House. The trial will determine the fate of Jair Bolsonaro and seven other defendants who were part of his government.