USAID Interference in Brazil Raises Concerns About National Sovereignty

Brasília, February 4, 2025 – Federal Deputy Eduardo Bolsonaro (PL-SP) has brought alarming accusations to light regarding the interference of the USAID (United States Agency for International Development) in Brazilian politics. According to information revealed by former U.S. State Department official Mike Benz, the agency has been financing NGOs, media outlets, and political movements to influence elections and shape narratives in Brazil. These revelations reignite the debate over foreign influence in the country and raise questions about national sovereignty.

USAID as a Tool for Geopolitical Manipulation

According to Mike Benz, USAID has been operating as a “geopolitical manipulation arm” under the administration of President Joe Biden. He claims the agency channels funds to organizations aligned with the globalist agenda to weaken governments that oppose American establishment interests.

Brazil is not an isolated case. This strategy has reportedly been implemented in several Latin American countries, where USAID has invested in media groups and political activism to undermine conservative candidates and strengthen progressive movements.

“If it weren’t for USAID’s funding of censorship and the NED’s operational censorship network, there would still be a free internet in Brazil, and Jair Bolsonaro would still be the country’s rightful president,” stated Mike Benz.

NGOs and Media Outlets Involved in Foreign Financing

Investigations indicate that USAID transferred $680,000 to Cáritas Brasileira in 2024, with additional funds being channeled through the International Center for Journalists (ICFJ). According to journalist David Ágape, part of this money was allocated to entities that promote censorship and disinformation in Brazil. Among the main beneficiaries are:

• Sleeping Giants Brasil and Alma Preta – groups known for promoting censorship campaigns and attacks against independent media;
• Fact-checking agency Lupa – funded to sustain the official narrative regarding the events of January 8, 2023;
• Instituto Vero, owned by Felipe Neto – received $30,000 directly from the U.S. Embassy.

Reports suggest that USAID uses the pretext of humanitarian aid and combating disinformation to finance organizations that align with a specific agenda. As a result, concerns are growing that this interference may be shaping public debate and influencing electoral outcomes in Brazil.

Congressional Response and Legislative Measures

In response to these revelations, Eduardo Bolsonaro has demanded immediate action, stating that his team is preparing requests for information from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MRE) and the Superior Electoral Court (TSE) to clarify the financing of these entities in Brazil.

Additionally, formal complaints will be submitted to the Attorney General’s Office (PGR) to ensure that legal measures are taken. At the same time, the deputy confirmed his support for the Congressional Inquiry Commission (CPI) proposed by Deputy Gustavo Gayer, aimed at investigating USAID’s activities and foreign funding of organizations operating in Brazil to influence national politics.

“National sovereignty is non-negotiable. Transparency is essential so that the Brazilian people are aware of the hidden interests operating within the country,” said Eduardo Bolsonaro.

Trump Mobilizes to Shut Down USAID

In the United States, former President Donald Trump has already announced plans to reduce USAID funding, and there is a growing movement to shut down the agency after 64 years.

Trump argues that USAID has shifted from being a humanitarian aid organization to becoming a tool for political influence and media manipulation in sovereign nations.

Conclusion: Should Brazil React?

The accusations raised by Eduardo Bolsonaro and Mike Benz serve as a warning about the role of foreign actors in Brazilian politics. The funding of NGOs and media outlets through U.S. agencies may represent a serious threat to democracy and national sovereignty.

The issue now takes on legal and political dimensions: To what extent can USAID’s interference be considered lawful? How will the Brazilian government respond to these revelations?

Eduardo Bolsonaro has assured that defending national sovereignty will be a priority, and that concrete steps will be taken to prevent Brazil from becoming hostage to foreign interests.

The investigation is only beginning, but the controversy is expected to unfold over the coming months. Brazil may be facing a foreign interference scandal that could impact elections, media, and public policies. The question remains: How will the government and national institutions react?