Trump imposes 50% tariff on Brazil, accuses of 'witch-hunt' against Bolsonaro.

Donald Trump Imposes 50% Tariff on Brazilian Imports

Donald Trump announced a 50% tariff on imports from Brazil in a letter posted on social media. The letter began by expressing discontent over the prosecution of his ally, former president Jair Bolsonaro. Trump criticized Brazil's treatment of Bolsonaro, calling it an "international disgrace" and a "Witch Hunt." He highlighted Brazil's alleged attacks on free elections and free speech rights of Americans. The tariff is set to take effect on August 1, 2025, and will apply to all Brazilian products entering the United States.

Trump's letter also referenced Brazil's decision to ban Bolsonaro from running in the next election and a dispute over social media censorship orders. Trump's company and Rumble, backed by Peter Thiel, sued a Brazilian supreme court justice over these orders. The letter reflects Trump's support for Bolsonaro amid legal challenges and controversies in Brazil.

The Trump administration plans to cut over 2,000 high-ranking employees at NASA to reduce the federal government's size. The cuts will impact employees with specialized skills or management responsibilities. The move is part of a broader effort to streamline NASA's workforce and operations, affecting various mission areas and IT roles.

Former heads of NASA's Science Mission Directorate have criticized the proposed budget cuts for fiscal year 2026. They warned that the cuts could jeopardize U.S. leadership in space exploration and scientific innovation. The officials emphasized the economic benefits of investing in NASA science programs and raised concerns about China's aggressive space program.

The U.S. runs a trade surplus with Brazil, contrary to Trump's claim of "unsustainable Trade Deficits." Data from the United States trade representative shows an increase in goods trade with Brazil in 2024. Trump's decision to impose tariffs on Brazilian imports is based on inaccurate information regarding trade relations between the two countries.

In summary, Trump's tariff announcement on Brazilian imports stems from his support for Bolsonaro amid legal challenges and disputes in Brazil. The decision to impose tariffs is based on misleading claims about trade deficits with Brazil. NASA's workforce cuts and budget challenges have raised concerns among former agency officials about the impact on U.S. space exploration efforts and global competitiveness.