U. S. Declares Brazil’s Big Gangs Terrorists, Sparking Debate

The United States has officially labeled two major Brazilian crime syndicates, the Red Command and First Capital Command, as terrorist groups. This move follows a trend started by former President Trump in 2025 that aimed to give law‑enforcement agencies more power against violent organizations worldwide. The decision was announced by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who said the gangs have thousands of members and have carried out violent attacks on police, officials, and civilians. He added that their networks reach beyond Brazil’s borders into the U. S. and neighboring countries. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva strongly opposed the designation, warning that it would have wide legal consequences in the United States. Lula’s political rival, conservative Flavio Bolsonaro, who recently met President Trump, supported the move.In October 2025, Brazilian security forces launched a large raid on the Red Command that killed at least 119 people, making it the country’s deadliest operation of its kind. Smaller clashes with these gangs happen frequently across Brazil. The U. S. has also carried out dozens of airstrikes on boats it claims are linked to drug trafficking and terrorist activity in Latin America. Countries with left‑leaning leaders, such as Mexico and Brazil, have opposed the designations, while right‑wing governments in Ecuador and Honduras have endorsed them. The upcoming Brazilian presidential election in October may be affected by this controversy. Polls show Lula leading Bolsonaro, but neither has secured the majority needed to avoid a runoff. The decision may influence voters’ views on crime and international cooperation.