US designates Brazilian gangs as terrorists, seen as election interference
The United States has classified two Brazilian criminal organizations, First Capital Command (PCC) and Red Command (CV), as foreign terrorist organizations. Experts and politicians argue the move is politically motivated to support Senator Flavio Bolsonaro, son of former President Jair Bolsonaro, in Brazil's upcoming October presidential election against incumbent Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. Unlike eight other Latin American groups previously designated, these gangs do not operate on US soil. The designation followed Bolsonaro's visit to Washington, where he requested the action. Analysts note that cocaine trafficking routes to the US bypass Brazil, with over 90% of cocaine seized in Brazil destined for Europe. Latin America expert Brian Winter of Americas Quarterly stated the decision was driven by politics to pressure Lula. Sociology professor Carolina Grillo from Fluminense Federal University agreed the move could sway the election.
Key facts
- US designated PCC and CV as foreign terrorist organizations.
- Gangs do not operate in the United States.
- Flavio Bolsonaro requested the designation during a Washington visit.
- Bolsonaro is running against Lula in October elections.
- Over 90% of cocaine seized in Brazil is destined for Europe.
- Brian Winter said the decision was political.
- Carolina Grillo said the move could sway the election.
- Eight other Latin American groups were previously designated.
Entities
Institutions
- First Capital Command (PCC)
- Red Command (CV)
- Americas Quarterly
- Council of the Americas
- Fluminense Federal University
- Sinaloa Cartel
- Jalisco New Generation Cartel
- Tren de Aragua
Locations
- United States
- Brazil
- Washington
- Colombia
- Mexico
- Central America
- Europe
- Rio de Janeiro
- Brasília
- Venezuela