U.S. Moves to Classify Brazil’s PCC and Comando Vermelho as Foreign Terrorist Organizations

On May 28, 2026, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the government's intent to list the Primeiro Comando da Capital (PCC) and Comando Vermelho (CV) as foreign terrorist organizations effective June 5. The decision is part of a broader U.S. policy aimed at countering transnational organized crime and limiting the financial networks of these groups.

Background on PCC and CV

Both gangs have roots in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, respectively, and are estimated to have more than 50,000 members. Their operations span drug trafficking, arms smuggling, and extortion across Brazil and internationally. While their activities are violent, critics argue they lack the ideological motives typical of conventional terrorism.

Political Fallout in Brazil

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has rejected the U.S. designation, warning it could undermine domestic law‑enforcement efforts. Lula highlighted that the gangs primarily pursue profit through crime rather than political objectives. The decision has inflamed tensions between Lula’s administration and the Bolsonaro family, who have called for stronger U.S. action against the groups.

U.S. Justification and Strategy

Secretary Rubio described the PCC and CV as “specially designated global terrorists,