The United States government classified the Primeiro Comando da Capital and Comando Vermelho as transnational criminal organizations. The measure was announced on May 28 and takes effect on June 5.
State Department spokeswoman Amanda Roberson said the factions operate in 12 US states and engage in drug trafficking, human trafficking and movement of illicit funds. She noted the designation is part of the Trump administration's national security strategy.
The decision followed a meeting between President Donald Trump and Senator Flávio Bolsonaro. Roberson denied any link to Brazil's 2026 elections and stated the measure does not foresee military intervention.
The Lula government regretted the classification and defended national sovereignty. Brazilian authorities criticized the initiative as external interference in domestic affairs.
