In this Epoch Times article, Kimberly Hayek reports that the United States is moving to designate two of Brazil’s most powerful criminal gangs as terrorist organizations.
- Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that the United States will designate Primeiro Comando da Capital (PCC) and Comando Vermelho (CV) as terrorist groups.
- The designations target two of Brazil’s most notorious criminal organizations, both deeply involved in drug trafficking and violent organized crime.
- The move allows the United States to freeze assets tied to the groups and bars Americans from providing them material support.
- Rubio said the groups threaten U.S. national security and are part of a broader criminal network destabilizing the Western Hemisphere.
- The designation is expected to take effect June 5, 2026, according to additional reporting from Reuters and AP.
- PCC is largely centered around São Paulo, while Comando Vermelho is rooted in Rio de Janeiro, though both have expanded influence across South America.
- The decision comes amid growing U.S. pressure against narco-terror networks and transnational criminal organizations.
- Brazil’s Lula government has reportedly resisted such designations, fearing they could open the door to U.S. sanctions, financial pressure, or even intervention.
- The move follows advocacy from Brazilian opposition figures, including Sen. Flávio Bolsonaro, who has pushed for tougher action against organized crime.
Read the full story: https://www.theepochtimes.com/world/us-to-designate-2-major-brazilian-gangs-as-terrorist-organizations-rubio-says-6040163?utm_source=partner&utm_campaign=TheLibertyDaily
