Washington: The U.S. Trump administration has imposed sanctions on the wife of Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, who sentenced former President Jair Bolsonaro earlier this month, while also revoking visas of several other Brazilian officials. Justice Moraes has condemned the action as an attack on Brazil’s sovereignty and the independence of its judiciary.
The sanctions specifically target Viviane Barsi de Moraes under the U.S. Global Magnitsky Act, a law typically used against individuals responsible for human rights abuses. Bolsonaro, who received a 27-year prison sentence for allegedly plotting a coup after losing the 2022 elections, remains out of custody pending appeals. The Trump administration has additionally revoked the visa of Brazil’s Solicitor General George Mesias, who criticized the ruling on social media.
Local media reports indicate that other judges working with Justice Moraes have also had their U.S. visas canceled, though these officials have not confirmed the news. The Moraes family’s holding company has also been sanctioned under the Magnitsky Act.
In response, Justice Moraes stated, “Brazilian institutions are strong and stable and will not be affected by the Trump administration’s actions. The sanctions against my wife are an attack on international law, Brazil’s sovereignty, and judicial independence.”

The U.S. State Department defended the sanctions, claiming that Justice Moraes misused his position to politicize the judiciary, issue arrest warrants without trial, and suppress freedom of expression. The Department described the measures as part of efforts to hold Moraes accountable for alleged abuse of power, targeting political rivals, and serious human rights violations.
Brazilian officials, including Solicitor General Mesias, have condemned the U.S. action as unfair but pledged to continue their duties responsibly. Health Minister Alexandre Padilha announced he will skip next week’s UN General Assembly session in New York due to visa restrictions limiting travel within the U.S.
