Brazil calls US-Latin America pact on PCC and Comando Vermelho 'very serious'

The Brazilian government of President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva considers "very serious" an agreement signed Tuesday by the United States and 14 other American nations that lists 24 criminal groups, including Brazil's PCC and Comando Vermelho, as transnational narcoterrorist organizations. Brazilian diplomats view the "Shield of the Americas" pact as a US maneuver to create a punitive agenda and legitimize actions outside international law. The agreement includes asset freezes, visa restrictions, and criminal accountability for those providing logistical support to listed groups. Brazil was not given prior access to the final text, though officials say the move was unsurprising given recent US pressure tactics involving tariffs, migration policy, and a more militarized approach to drug trafficking in the region. Lula preemptively responded at the UN General Assembly, stating Brazil will not "outsource the responsibility to defend our borders" and that "Brazil does not fit in anyone's backyard." The government expects bilateral security cooperation with neighbors to continue, while the signatories plan to seek OAS consultation under the TIAR treaty, though practical effects remain unclear.