US designates Brazil’s two largest gangs as terrorist organizations
The United States has designated Brazil's two largest criminal gangs, the First Capital Command (PCC) and the Red Command, as foreign terrorist organizations. This decision is viewed as a setback for Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who opposed the designation, and a potential boost for his far-right challenger, Flávio Bolsonaro. The gangs, which originated in Brazilian prisons, have become significant players in the international drug trade.
- ▪The US classified the PCC and Red Command as foreign terrorist organizations.
- ▪Marco Rubio stated that these groups are among the most violent criminal organizations in Brazil.
- ▪Lula opposed the designation, arguing it undermines Brazilian sovereignty.
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Announcing the designation, Marco Rubio wrote that the groups are ‘two of the most violent criminal organizations in Brazil’. Photograph: Samuel Corum/Pool/Samuel Corum - Pool/CNP/ShutterstockView image in fullscreenAnnouncing the designation, Marco Rubio wrote that the groups are ‘two of the most violent criminal organizations in Brazil’. Photograph: Samuel Corum/Pool/Samuel Corum - Pool/CNP/ShutterstockBrazilUS designates Brazil’s two largest gangs as terrorist organizationsAnnouncement by Marco Rubio is being widely seen as setback for Brazil’s president, and a boost for his far-right challengerTiago Rogero in Rio de JaneiroFri 29 May 2026 08.31 EDTLast modified on Fri 29 May 2026 08.32 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleThe United States has designated Brazil’s two largest criminal…
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