Brazil Convicts Military Officers in Plot to Assassinate Lula
Brazilian Court Sentences Soldiers and Policeman for Plot to Assassinate President-Elect
Three soldiers and a federal police officer have been sentenced to prison terms ranging from 21 to 24 years for their involvement in a plot to assassinate Brazil’s president-elect, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, before his inauguration. The plan was orchestrated by former right-wing President Jair Bolsonaro, who is now serving a 27-year sentence for leading the conspiracy.

The plot aimed to prevent Lula from assuming office following his victory in the 2022 presidential election, which saw him defeat Bolsonaro. The conspirators sought to maintain Bolsonaro’s influence despite his loss, with the operation known as the "Green and Yellow Dagger" — a reference to the colors of the Brazilian flag.
The four individuals involved were found guilty of planning to carry out assassinations of key officials. Their sentences will not begin until all possible appeals have been exhausted. Bolsonaro’s appeal was recently rejected, but he continues to deny any wrongdoing.

Avoiding a Period of 'Institutional Darkness'
The 10-member group behind the plot had also targeted several other high-profile Brazilian officials, including Geraldo Alckmin, Lula’s vice president, and Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, who also served as one of the trial’s judges. Other members of the group received shorter sentences, starting at one year and eleven months.
Justice Flavio Dino described the situation as a dangerous attempt to plunge Brazil into what he called “a chasm of institutional darkness.” He emphasized that the plot was not just an attempted coup but a broader effort to dismantle the country’s democratic institutions, including the constitution, citizenship rights, and freedom of the press.
International Reactions and Improved Relations
The plot has drawn international attention, particularly from the United States. Former U.S. President Donald Trump, a close ally of Bolsonaro, announced a 50% tariff on Brazilian imports, labeling the legal actions against Bolsonaro as a “witch hunt.” This move was seen as a low point in the two-century-long relationship between the U.S. and Brazil.
However, recent developments have signaled a potential improvement in relations. After Lula and Trump spoke on the phone and met in Malaysia last month, diplomatic ties between the two nations appear to be on the mend.
Key Points from the Case
- The conspiracy led by Jair Bolsonaro aimed to prevent Lula from taking office after his 2022 election win.
- Three soldiers and a federal police officer were sentenced to between 21 and 24 years in prison.
- Bolsonaro himself received a 27-year sentence for orchestrating the plot.
- The group planned to assassinate multiple high-ranking officials, including Lula’s vice president and a Supreme Court justice.
- Justice Flavio Dino warned of the dangers posed by the plot, calling it a threat to Brazil’s democracy.
- The U.S. imposed tariffs on Brazil due to the legal actions against Bolsonaro, but recent diplomatic efforts may improve bilateral relations.
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