The U.S. government is contemplating designating Brazilian criminal organizations such as Comando Vermelho and the Primeiro Comando da Capital (PCC) as terrorist groups. This consideration follows a report from UOL, revealing that U.S. officials visited Brazil last year to gather intelligence on these gangs. The U.S. State Department has indicated that while it does not rule out the possibility of this designation, it does not plan to make an announcement soon, citing national security concerns as the driving factor behind this potential classification.

In response to this looming designation, Brazil's President Lula is actively seeking to prevent such a categorization. Lula's administration aims to negotiate a cooperative approach to combat organized crime with the U.S. government, specifically hoping to discuss this topic with former President Donald Trump in an upcoming, yet-to-be-scheduled conversation. The Brazilian government is concerned that the terrorist label could open doors for U.S. interference in Brazil's sovereignty and complicate ongoing efforts to address crime domestically.

Experts consulted by Folha express varied opinions about the implications of the U.S. designation. Some suggest it could lead to increased oversight and involvement in Brazilian affairs by the U.S. government, while others argue it could complicate international cooperation against organized crime, highlighting the delicate balance the Lula administration needs to maintain in its foreign relations. As Brazil navigates this complex issue, the implications of the U.S. stance remain significant for the country’s sovereignty and law enforcement strategies in the face of organized crime.