Bolsonaro supporters rally in Brazil as coup trial nears verdict

8/9/2025 6:16

Thousands of supporters of former far-right Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro staged protests across several cities on Sunday, days ahead of the conclusion of his trial for allegedly plotting a coup after losing the 2022 presidential election.



Demonstrators in Brasilia, Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo waved Brazilian flags alongside some U.S. flags, in what appeared to be a nod to President Donald Trump, who has called the legal proceedings against Bolsonaro a "witch hunt." Trump also has imposed high tariffs on Brazilian products as well as sanctions on the justices presiding over Bolsonaro's trial.



Bolsonaro, who is currently under house arrest, is facing criminal charges for attempting to cling to power after losing his reelection bid to leftist leader Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. If convicted, the 70-year-old former army captain, who denies all accusations, could face years in prison.



Brazil's Supreme Court is expected to issue its ruling by Friday.