-
BRICS Nations Set to Resist Trump’s Tariff Policies .
-
Absence of Xi and Putin weakens summit’s political weight.
-
Middle East conflicts create divisions within BRICS nations.
Leaders of the BRICS nations are meeting in Rio de Janeiro this Sunday to discuss a joint response to the aggressive trade policies of United States President Donald Trump.
The group, representing about half of the world’s population and 40% of global economic output, is seeking ways to counter what they describe as unfair U.S. tariffs.
EDITOR’S PICKS
- Tinubu Congratulates Adeniyi on Election as WCO Council Chairperson
- Week 52 Pool Result for Sat 28, Jun 2025, Pool 2025
- Man Declared Wanted for Allegedly Macheting Wife to Death
EKO HOT BLOG reports that since returning to office in January, Trump has introduced tough trade measures targeting both allies and rivals, with another round of tariffs expected to begin on July 9.
Sources close to the summit suggest that BRICS leaders will likely avoid mentioning the U.S. or President Trump directly in their final statement. Instead, the group is expected to issue a broad message pushing back against Washington’s trade policies.
Marta Fernandez, director of the BRICS Policy Centre at Rio’s Pontifical Catholic University, said the summit would likely take a cautious approach. “It will be difficult to mention the United States by name in the final declaration,” she said, adding that China would prefer to avoid fresh tensions after recent trade negotiations with Washington.
The summit’s political weight is expected to be reduced by the absence of key leaders. Chinese President Xi Jinping will not attend, marking the first time he has missed a BRICS summit in 12 years. Russian President Vladimir Putin will also participate virtually.
The group is also divided over how to approach conflicts in the Middle East, including the wars in Gaza and the rising tensions between Iran and Israel. Iran is pushing for a stronger BRICS position, but some members remain cautious.
Despite the internal cracks, Brazil’s Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira believes BRICS can still speak with one voice on major issues.
FURTHER READING
- Napoli Prepares For Osimhen’s Return As Saudi Offer Looms
- ICAN Applauds Bold Tax Reforms Signed Into Law by Tinubu
- Arewa 19 Declares Support for Tinubu-Shettima Ahead of 2027
