U.S. to Designate Brazilian Criminal Groups as Terrorist Organizations
Secretary of State Marco Rubio has revealed that the United States will officially label two prominent Brazilian criminal groups as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs). This move is anticipated to facilitate greater intervention following requests from Brazil’s political opposition.
Starting June 5th, the Capital Command (PCC) and Red Command (CV) will be recognized as FTOs. This action reflects the Trump administration’s intensified efforts against criminal cartels throughout Latin America.
“CV and PCC are two of the most violent criminal organizations in Brazil,” Rubio stated. “Together, they command thousands of members and orchestrate brutal attacks against Brazilian police officers, civil servants, and civilians. Their influence and illegal networks extend far beyond Brazil’s borders and into our country. Today’s action by the State Department demonstrates our firm commitment to dismantling criminal organizations in the region and ensuring American safety.”
This decision came just a day after Brazilian senator Flavio Bolsonaro, who is preparing to run for president with support from his father, former President Jair Bolsonaro, visited Washington. The senator had publicly asked for these designations during his trip.
During meetings with Rubio, Bolsonaro’s aides brought up voter concerns regarding violent crime ahead of Brazil’s upcoming presidential election in October, as they looked to align closely with the Trump administration.
Experts estimate that the combined membership of PCC and CV exceeds 50,000. While PCC’s activities are largely focused around São Paulo, CV maintains a significant presence in Rio de Janeiro.
Current Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s administration has worked to avoid such a designation. It has been suggested that he is hesitant because it could pave the way for unilateral U.S. military action and potentially impose severe sanctions on domestic banks that inadvertently engage with gang members.
Celso Amorim, Lula’s chief foreign policy adviser, emphasized the need for caution in light of the U.S. announcement. He noted, “International cooperation is welcome, especially on topics such as money laundering and arms trafficking. However, using this as a pretext for intervention is unacceptable.”
