Brazil condemns US terrorist designation of major criminal gangs

Brazil's government has strongly criticized the United States' decision to designate two major Brazilian criminal organizations as foreign terrorist organizations, arguing that the move raises concerns about national sovereignty and potential external interference.

In a statement, the government of President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva emphasized that "National sovereignty is non-negotiable."

"Brazil rejects any form of external interference in its internal affairs," the government stated. Brasília also warned against "arbitrary measures from abroad" that could be used as a pretext to undermine the country's sovereignty and economy.

The criticism followed an announcement by the U.S. State Department that the Primeiro Comando da Capital (PCC) and Comando Vermelho (CV) would be designated as foreign terrorist organizations effective June 5.

The State Department said the designation was justified because the groups "are two of the most violent criminal organizations in Brazil" and have influence extending into the United States.

Brazil, however, argued that the activities of the groups do not fit the traditional definition of terrorism. In its statement, the government said: "The terror caused by these organizations in communities seeks to generate profit through crime, particularly drug and arms trafficking, and cannot be confused with the kind of action motivated by ideological, political, and religious reasons seen in international terrorism."

Brasília also highlighted ongoing cooperation with Washington in combating organized crime. According to the government, Brazil recently proposed expanding bilateral cooperation on money laundering and arms trafficking investigations.

At the same time, officials warned that unilateral actions could weaken information-sharing between security agencies and lead to economic consequences.

The Brazilian government is particularly concerned that the terrorist designation could provide a legal basis for tougher U.S. measures in the future, potentially including actions affecting Brazilian territory.

By Tamilla Hasanova