​Geopolitics heats up: US–BRICS tensions rise over trade and currency​

U.S. President Donald Trump announced that the U.S. will soon impose a 10% tariff on imports from BRICS nations. Speaking at a cabinet meeting, he emphasized that any country belonging to BRICS would be subject to this charge. Trump stated, “Anybody that's in BRICS is getting a 10% charge pretty soon,” signaling a tough stance on countries he views as economically challenging U.S. interests.

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who recently hosted the annual BRICS summit in Rio de Janeiro, responded firmly to Trump’s remarks. Lula criticized what he saw as U.S. overreach and said, “The world does not want an emperor.” He also rejected any criticism directed at the BRICS summit, making it clear that Brazil would not accept threats or interference from the U.S.

BRICS has expanded in recent years to include countries like Iran and Indonesia, broadening the bloc’s global influence. Trump alleged that BRICS was formed to weaken the U.S. and reduce the importance of the U.S. dollar in international trade. He warned that the group's actions were aimed at removing the dollar as the global standard, and compared such an outcome to losing a major world war.

Despite his strong words, Trump did not announce a specific timeline for implementing the tariffs. Sources familiar with the matter indicated that the new duties may only be applied if BRICS countries engage in what the U.S. sees as anti-American policies. Mere political statements or criticisms may not be enough to trigger the tariff.

Earlier this year, Brazil decided to cancel plans for a common BRICS currency during its presidency of the group. However, Trump remains concerned about the economic intentions behind BRICS. He warned that losing the dollar’s global reserve status would fundamentally damage the U.S., stating, “We would not be the same country any longer.” (Disclaimer: This slideshow has been sourced from Reuters)