HAMILTON, Canada

US President Donald Trump on Monday denounced the criminal trial of Brazil's former President Jair Bolsonaro over an alleged coup attempt, calling the case a politically motivated "witch hunt."

"Brazil is doing a terrible thing on their treatment of former President Jair Bolsonaro. I have watched, as has the World, as they have done nothing but come after him, day after day, night after night, month after month, year after year!" Trump wrote on Truth Social.

"He is not guilty of anything, except having fought for THE PEOPLE. I have gotten to know Jair Bolsonaro, and he was a strong Leader, who truly loved his Country — Also, a very tough negotiator on TRADE," Trump said.

The US president also argued that "His Election was very close and now, he is leading in the Polls. This is nothing more, or less, than an attack on a Political Opponent - Something I know much about!"

"I'll be watching the WITCH HUNT of Jair Bolsonaro, his family, and thousands of his supporters, very closely. The only Trial that should be happening is a Trial by the Voters of Brazil — It’s called an Election," he said.

"LEAVE BOLSONARO ALONE!" Trump urged.

Bolsonaro and seven others have been indicted for an attempted coup after Brazil's top court accepted charges against the ex-leader and his allies.

By a unanimous five-to-zero vote, the Supreme Court ruled that charges by the prosecution against Bolsonaro warranted a criminal trial.

The former president could face up to 30 years in prison if convicted.