Christopher Landau Accuses Justice De Moraes of Straining U.S.-Brazil Relations
Brazil’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau’s recent social media remarks as a “frontal attack on Brazilian sovereignty.” The Brazilian government’s sentiment reflects a growing discontent toward perceived U.S. interference in its internal affairs, reports 24brussels.
During a meeting on Friday, the Brazilian Foreign Ministry rebuked Landau’s assertions, emphasizing its commitment to challenge any attacks fueled by misinformation. The Ministry reiterated that Brazil’s democracy, having recently survived an attempted coup, remains resolute against external pressures.
On Saturday, Landau criticized Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, alleging that he had undermined the longstanding bond between Brazil and the United States. In his post, Landau articulated the necessity of a separate judicial branch to safeguard liberties, arguing that “a single branch … can amass too much power if checked by the others.”
Landau did not shy away from addressing what he termed the “intimidation” of judicial power in Brazil, alluding to the Supreme Court’s authority over individual and corporate conduct across borders. He claimed that this overreach had significantly disrupted U.S.-Brazil relations.
Justice de Moraes is currently overseeing the legal proceedings against former President Jair Bolsonaro, accused of conspiring to prevent the installation of President Lula da Silva after the latter’s electoral victory in 2022. Bolsonaro faces accusations linked to plotting a coup, leading to sanctions imposed by the U.S., including tariffs on Brazilian imports.
In a tweet addressing the matter, Landau expressed concern over the escalation of judicial powers under De Moraes, suggesting that it risked further international relations. His remarks come amid intensified scrutiny of Bolsonaro’s actions by Brazilian authorities, resulting in the former president’s house arrest due to alleged violations of court orders.
The implications of this growing conflict underscore the delicate balance of power within Brazil’s government and its international relations, particularly as it navigates its ties with the United States.
