US considers sanctions against Moraes and STF ministers in 2026
US authorities are analyzing requests for sanctions against STF ministers based on the Magnitsky Act following new revelations from the crisis involving Banco Master.
TL;DR
- Brazilian politicians in Washington are seeking US sanctions against ministers Alexandre de Moraes, Gilmar Mendes, and Flávio Dino.
- The sanctions are requested under the Magnitsky Act, based on recent developments in the Banco Master crisis.
- Allegations include messages suggesting assistance in processes favorable to Banco Master and contracts between the bank and the wife of Minister Moraes' law firm.
- Minister Moraes disputes the accusations, stating the messages do not prove real dialogues and were sent via temporary images.
- The Magnitsky Act allows the US to punish foreigners for human rights violations or corruption by freezing assets and prohibiting business dealings.
- Sancioned individuals would face blocked US-based assets and credit cards, impacting international financial transactions.
- There is no legal impediment to a person being added to the Magnitsky list after being removed, with US Treasury and State Department having full reconsideration authority.
- Minister Moraes was previously sanctioned under the Magnitsky Act in July 2025 but had measures suspended in December 2025.
- The direct legal effects of US sanctions within Brazil are limited, as they do not equate to a judicial conviction.
- Previous experience showed Minister Moraes' credit cards were blocked, but he could continue operating financially in Brazil.
- The primary impact of sanctions is political and symbolic, with potential influence on Brazilian presidential elections.
- Washington will consider if such a measure could strengthen sovereignty defense narratives in Brazil.