Brazil's Foreign Ministry Says U.S. Terror Designation of PCC and Comando Vermelho Could Open Door to Military Action…

Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira said there is a possibility that the United States could use military force on Brazilian territory. According to the head of Itamaraty, that possibility arose after the Donald Trump administration designated the criminal organizations PCC (First Capital Command) and Comando Vermelho (Red Command) as terrorist organizations.

The statement came in response to a request for information from Brazil's Chamber of Deputies, submitted by Congressman Evair Vieira de Melo (Republicanos-ES). Vieira said the designation of the gangs as terrorist organizations could have "significant implications both economically and for national sovereignty" and argued that it "will bring no concrete benefits to international cooperation" between the two countries.

According to the minister, actions such as information sharing, asset seizure and repatriation, and anti-money laundering efforts were already possible under existing U.S. legislation. The new designation, however, opens the door to unilateral administrative and judicial measures against individuals and companies outside the United States, which could be applied "with a broad degree of discretion," potentially affecting Brazilian citizens in financial, immigration, and criminal matters.

The Trump administration designated PCC and Comando Vermelho as terrorist organizations one month ago, a decision opposed by Lula's government that came days after Senator Flávio Bolsonaro (PL-RJ) visited the U.S. president. According to Vieira, Brazil was not formally consulted about the decision, which he described as a unilateral act.

The minister also said Itamaraty is working to diplomatically advance the Brazilian government's priorities on public security and the fight against transnational organized crime, stressing the need for international cooperation.

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