Eduardo Bolsonaro claimed credit for pushing the White House to announce 50% tariffs on most Brazilian goods, the highest levied on any nation, which became effective this Wednesday.

Bolsonaro is currently on trial over accusations of trying to stage a coup following his 2022 election defeat. Trump’s comments pulled Brazil directly into his larger trade and political disputes, making Lula’s response both diplomatic and defiant.

Former President Bolsonaro made clear the humiliation of court-ordered restraints would not curb his role in global politics.