Jair Bolsonaro is back in headlines after being transferred to a better hospital room amid pneumonia recovery, while serving a 27-year prison sentence for leading a coup attempt.
Brazilian samba schools celebrated President Lula during Carnival parades, highlighting his life story from poverty to leadership. The tribute has sparked controversy, with opponents claiming it constitutes early campaigning ahead of October elections. Lula and his entourage attended despite legal risks, amid ongoing political debates.
A high-profile trial begins in Brazil involving five men, including former congressman Chiquinho Brazão, accused of orchestrating the killing of politician and human rights advocate Marielle Franco. The case highlights ongoing issues of organized crime, militias, and systemic violence in Brazil, with the trial seen as a potential step toward justice.
Brazilian ex-president Jair Bolsonaro, serving a 27-year sentence for coup attempt, is hospitalized with pneumonia and kidney issues. His condition has improved but remains serious. Bolsonaro has a history of health problems and is seeking house arrest. The case continues to attract political attention.
Brazil, despite its large critical minerals reserves, is hesitant to accept a U.S. proposal for a bilateral agreement, citing a desire to retain control over its resources. The U.S. has sought to invest in Brazilian projects, but diplomatic tensions and Brazil's insistence on sovereignty have hindered progress.
Ramagem, a former Brazilian lawmaker sentenced to 16 years for involvement in the 2023 coup attempt, has been detained in Orlando after fleeing Brazil. He used spy software to monitor opponents and was stripped of his mandates. His arrest follows cooperation between US and Brazilian law enforcement, raising concerns over political persecution and asylum.
Romuald Wadagni has won Benin's presidential election with 94.27% of the vote, succeeding Patrice Talon who is stepping down after two terms. The election featured limited opposition due to legal restrictions, with main rival Renaud Agbodjo barred from running. Wadagni faces challenges including a jihadist insurgency in northern Benin and demands to improve social services and security.
Venezuelan opposition leader Machado has visited Spain, meeting with opposition figures and avoiding talks with the government. She has received a warm welcome from conservative leaders, highlighting divisions within Venezuelan politics and contrasting her approach with that of the Spanish government, which emphasizes democratic sovereignty.
The US has been sending migrants from Latin America to Congo under third-country agreements. The first groups have arrived in Kinshasa, with the US covering logistics. Critics raise concerns over legality, human rights, and the stability of destination countries.
Amnesty International's annual report criticizes US, Russia, and Israel for rejecting multilateral norms and escalating conflicts. It highlights abuses in Gaza, Ukraine, and Iran, and warns that leaders' actions are emboldening global predators, undermining decades of international law.