Bolsonaro Lawyers Appeal Coup Sentence as Global Appeals Unfold

Lead: Defense attorneys for former Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro filed an appeal against his 27-year coup sentence in Brasília, while prosecutors in Taipei and Austria’s appeal court also advanced major challenges today.

Nut Graf: These simultaneous appeals underscore growing political and legal tensions worldwide. In Brasília, Bolsonaro’s team decries “excessive” punishment; in Taipei, prosecutors seek to revoke Ko Wen-je’s bail; and in Luxembourg, Austria secured annulment of EU aid approval for Hungary’s Paks II reactors.

Brazil: Coup Sentence Challenged

In Brasilia, Jair Bolsonaro’s defense announced an appeal “including at the international level” against the Federal Supreme Court’s 27-year sentence for orchestrating an attempted coup. Lawyers argue the verdict is “excessive and disproportionate” and vow to pursue all legal remedies.

Taiwan: Prosecutors Fight Ko Wen-je Bail

Taipei prosecutors appealed the High Court’s bail order for former mayor Ko Wen-je, detained on bribery and embezzlement charges. They requested his continued detention until key witnesses are questioned next month, citing flight risk and case complexity.

EU: Austria Wins Paks II Appeal

The European Court of Justice annulled the European Commission’s approval of Hungarian state aid for the Paks II nuclear project. Austria’s appeal court held the Commission failed to assess compliance with public procurement rules for direct contracts awarded to Russian firms.

Looking Ahead

• Bolsonaro’s defense plans to escalate to international tribunals.
• Taiwan’s lower court to schedule a hearing on Ko’s detention appeal.
• The Commission may seek further review or adjust procurement oversight.