Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva criticized the United States' decision to designate Brazil's two largest criminal organizations as terrorist groups and called on Washington to respect his country's sovereignty. This was reported by international media, according to UNN.
Details
The groups in question are the "Red Command" (CV) and the "First Capital Command" (PCC), which the U.S. has officially added to its list of terrorist organizations. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that these structures are involved in drug trafficking, arms smuggling, and maintain networks that extend far beyond Brazil's borders.
Lula declared the defense of sovereignty
Speaking to supporters, the Brazilian leader reacted sharply to Washington's decision.
"We will not tolerate being treated like children. We will not tolerate being treated like some banana republic,"
The President also emphasized that Brazilian law enforcement agencies are capable of fighting organized crime independently and urged the U.S. not to interfere in the country's internal affairs.
Washington insists on the threat from the groups
According to Rubio, the CV and PCC are among the most dangerous criminal organizations in the region, and their activities pose a threat not only to Brazil but also to the U.S.
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In response, Lula stated: "Do not play with the sovereignty of this country. Do not play with our democracy." He also called on the American authorities to cooperate in the extradition of wanted criminals located on U.S. territory.
The decision to designate South American criminal groups as terrorist organizations became part of President Donald Trump's administration policy, which, according to American officials, is intended to expand capabilities for combating transnational crime.
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