US Declares Brazilian Gangs as Global Terrorists

The United States, led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, plans to label Brazilian gangs PCC and Comando Vermelho as 'Foreign Terrorist Organizations' from June 5. This move is part of efforts to curb illicit drug activities and protect national security. Brazil's Lula administration opposes such designations.

The United States is set to classify Brazilian gangs PCC and Comando Vermelho as 'Foreign Terrorist Organizations' starting June 5, announced U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Thursday.

The Lula administration in Brazil opposes these designations, fearing potential U.S. military action or sanctions on banks inadvertently dealing with these gangs. Although planned for June, the gangs were designated as 'Specially Designated Global Terrorists' by the U.S. Department of State on Thursday, according to Rubio's statement.

Rubio highlighted the gangs' status as two of the most violent criminal organizations in Brazil, stressing their extensive influence across the region and into the U.S. He assured that the Trump Administration remains committed to securing national safety by blocking illicit drugs and halting funding to narco-terrorists.