Trump-led coalition sanctions 24 Latin American gangs, including Brazil's PCC and Red Command

A coalition of 14 Latin American and Caribbean countries, led by the United States under the "Shield of the Americas" initiative, announced sanctions against 24 criminal factions, including Brazil's Comando Vermelho (CV) and Primeiro Comando da Capital (PCC), which they labeled "narco-terrorist" organizations. The announcement came on the same day President Donald Trump threatened military force in Latin America to secure U.S. interests. Brazil, along with Uruguay, Suriname, and Venezuela, did not sign the document, which calls for asset freezes, visa restrictions, and prosecutions of those supporting the listed groups. Experts told BBC News Brasil that the move indirectly targets Brazil, potentially paving the way for military actions near or within its territory. Analysts suggest Trump's focus on the region, including his UN speech, is aimed at pressuring non-aligned nations like Brazil ahead of its presidential election, potentially favoring candidate Flávio Bolsonaro. President Lula responded by rejecting foreign interference, stating "Brazil does not fit in anyone's backyard."