Live Feeds
● LIVE Updated 1d ago · 62 sources tracked

BRICS summit: Is the bloc truly challenging a Western-dominated world?

The BRICS bloc confronts internal friction and strategic challenges as member states pursue local-currency trade, digital transformation, and multilateral reform. India manages a delicate diplomatic balance between Western partners, China, and Russia during global tensions. Meanwhile, the US political establishment attempts to project a peacemaker image following decades of financing wars, while President Joe Biden identifies growing security threats from Russia and China. Lula's fourth presidential term spared the bloc from an internal fracture while the US seeks to reassert its global power.

🎙️

Listen to Live Briefing

Real-time synthesized voice briefing · Live Feeds Desk

⏱ ~3 min
Speed:
RSS Source map (62)
⚡ Key Developments & Real-Time Context
Text size:
  • ✓ US President Joe Biden highlighted growing threats posed by Russia and China to United States national security during a visit to the Office of the Director of National Intelligence.
  • ✓ Lula's fourth term may have spared BRICS an internal fracture at a time when Trump is trying to reassert US power.
🛡️ Source Corroboration: 62 independent reporting domains (85% confidence) ⏱ Read time: ~2 min

What changed

Lula's fourth presidential term averted a potential internal fracture within BRICS amid ongoing US efforts to reassert global power.

Live updates

  1. BRICS Navigates Global Tensions Amid US Power Struggles

    The BRICS bloc confronts internal friction and strategic challenges as member states pursue local-currency trade, digital transformation, and multilateral reform. India manages a delicate diplomatic balance between Western partners, China, and Russia during global tensions. Meanwhile, the US political establishment attempts to project a peacemaker image following decades of financing wars, while President Joe Biden identifies growing security threats from Russia and China. Lula's fourth presidential term spared the bloc from an internal fracture while the US seeks to reassert its global power.

    Why it matters

    The 18th BRICS summit in New Delhi highlights the bloc's efforts to accelerate global governance reform and secure a stronger role for the Global South. Eleven member states are working together on institutional development despite complex strategic variables and institutional fragmentation. These geopolitical dynamics unfold alongside ongoing efforts to challenge the dominance of the US dollar.

    What is confirmed

    • US President Joe Biden highlighted growing threats posed by Russia and China to United States national security during a visit to the Office of the Director of National Intelligence.
    • Lula's fourth term may have spared BRICS an internal fracture at a time when Trump is trying to reassert US power.

    Still unconfirmed

    • The downfall of the US dollar remains a work in progress.

    What to watch next

    • Implementation of local-currency trade agreements among the eleven BRICS member states
    • Further developments regarding the 2026 BRICS expansion and institutional integration
    Sources used for this update (4)
    1. cpa.org.au — war Archives - CPA
    2. www.aljazeera.com — Lula’s victory echoes across BRICS after fears of a Bolsonaro ...
    3. geostrategicmedia.com — How BRICS Is Coming Together to Challenge the U.S. Dollar
    4. alfa.razon.com.mx — BRICS Expansion 2026: A New Era Begins—What Member States and ...
    confidence 85%

  2. BRICS Summit Tests India's Global Balancing Act

    The 18th BRICS summit in New Delhi highlights India's delicate balancing act between Western partners, China, and Russia amid global tensions. Amb. (Retd.) Ruchira Kamboj notes the New Delhi summit provides a clearer framework for accelerating global governance reform through greater representation and a stronger role for the Global South. While eleven member states pursue multilateral reform, digital transformation, and local-currency trade, the bloc navigates internal friction and complex strategic variables. US media spotlighted New Delhi as it manages these competing relationships and addresses institutional fragmentation.

    Why it matters

    The bloc represents forty percent of global GDP and twenty-six percent of trade while pushing for institutional reforms. The current talks under India's chairship focus on payment system changes and New Development Bank lending. Leaders also address normalisation along the Line of Actual Control, direct flights, and rare earths.

    What is confirmed

    • The 18th BRICS summit convened eleven member states under India's chairship in New Delhi.
    • Amb. (Retd.) Ruchira Kamboj states the summit provides a clearer framework for accelerating reform of global governance institutions.

    Still unconfirmed

    • Xi Jinping's visit to India for the BRICS summit was shaped by Line of Actual Control disengagement, rare earths, fertilisers, and US tensions.

    What to watch next

    • Implementation of the New Delhi Declaration goals
    • Further developments in India-China relations and Line of Actual Control disengagement
    • Progress on local-currency trade and payment system changes
    Sources used for this update (3)
    1. www.wionews.com — Xi at BRICS Summit: US factor, LAC normalisation and other ...
    2. indiawest.com — US Media Spotlights India’s Balancing Act Between West and ...
    3. indiawrites.org — From Voice to Impact: BRICS and Push for Global Governance ...
    confidence 90%

  3. BRICS Summit Pushes Local Currencies and Global Governance Reform

    The 18th BRICS summit convened eleven member states under India's chairship in New Delhi to adopt the New Delhi Declaration. Leaders focused on digital transformation, sustainable development, multilateral reform, and local-currency trade alongside New Development Bank lending and payment system changes. While representing forty percent of global GDP and twenty-six percent of trade, the bloc seeks to strengthen South-South cooperation and global governance without forming a direct rival to the Western-led financial system. Internal disagreements and competing visions continue to generate institutional fragmentation.

    Why it matters

    The eleven-member bloc gathered in August and September 2026 to target unilateral sanctions, tariffs, and current global financial system governance. Previous reporting highlighted that despite accounting for nearly half of the world population and forty percent of global GDP, the group lacks a unified alternative system. The New Delhi meetings built upon these economic tensions by emphasizing multilateral reform and de-dollarization through local-currency trade.

    What is confirmed

    • The 18th BRICS Summit took place in New Delhi under India's chairship with eleven member states.
    • Leaders adopted the New Delhi Declaration, focusing on digital transformation, sustainable development, multilateral reform, and inclusive growth.
    • The BRICS bloc represents 40 percent of global GDP.

    Still unconfirmed

    • US Big Tech corporations are meddling in Brazil's elections by censoring President Lula da Silva while promoting Trump candidate Flavio Bolsonaro.

    What to watch next

    • Implementation of local-currency trade agreements and New Development Bank lending reforms.
    • Further developments regarding payment system reforms agreed upon in New Delhi.
    Sources used for this update (4)
    1. impriinsights.in — BRICS Summit 2026: New Delhi, August 2026 - IMPRI Impact And ...
    2. southasianherald.com — The 18th BRICS Summit: De-Dollarization Without Confrontation
    3. www.geopoliticaleconomy.report — US Big Tech corporations are blatantly meddling in Brazil's election - Substack,Ben Norton
    4. africabizmonitor.com — BRICS Bloc Weighs 40% of Global GDP at Delhi Summit
    confidence 100%

  4. BRICS Leaders Challenge Global Financial Governance in New Delhi Summit

    BRICS leaders adopted a political and economic declaration on September 12 and 13, 2026, targeting unilateral sanctions, tariffs, and the current global financial system governance. The 11-member bloc represents approximately 40% of global GDP and 49% of the world population. While the group challenges the U.S.-led economic order, it has not established a rival system. Internal disagreements persist, with some analysts describing the bloc as a site of competing visions that produce fragmentation rather than a unified alternative to Western global governance.

    Why it matters

    The summit occurred amid shipping disruptions and conflicts in Eurasia and the Middle East. India's role as host highlights its effort to maintain strategic autonomy between Western allies and BRICS partners. The expansion of the group aims to shift economic influence toward Asia and Africa.

    What is confirmed

    • India hosted the 18th BRICS summit on September 12 and 13, 2026.
    • The BRICS group consists of 11 member countries.
    • The bloc accounts for roughly 49% of the world population and about 40% of the world GDP.

    Still unconfirmed

    • The group is challenging the U.S.-led economic order but stopping short of building a rival system.

    What to watch next

    • Evidence of a formal alternative to the current global financial governance structure
    • Implementation of the economic declaration regarding unilateral tariffs and sanctions
    Sources used for this update (4)
    1. southasianherald.com — BRICS Challenges U.S.-Led Economic Order, but Stops Short ...
    2. aspeniaonline.it — The latest BRICS Summit: India’s test, China’s shadow, and ...
    3. indepthnews.net — Regional Trade and Economic Strategy Draw Asia and Africa ...
    4. www.globalpolicyjournal.com — Competing Norm Entrepreneurs in BRICS: Institutional ...
    confidence 80%

  5. BRICS Members Call for Calm in Middle East at New Delhi Summit

    Members of the expanded BRICS group called for calm in the Middle East during their annual summit in New Delhi, issuing a joint statement after overcoming earlier divisions. Leaders met in the Indian capital amid mounting geopolitical tension, shipping disruptions, energy market shocks, and ongoing conflicts in Eurasia and the Middle East. The bloc attempted to broker diplomacy and manage peace amid rising Iran-US-Israel tensions and the Russia-Ukraine war. The summit also tested India's strategic autonomy as New Delhi balanced ties with China and Russia while maintaining its relationship with the United States.

    Why it matters

    The bloc originated from an informal grouping coined by a Goldman Sachs economist in 2001 and held its first leaders summit in 2009 with Brazil, Russia, India, and China. South Africa joined in 2010, followed by further expansion in 2024 and January 2025 to include nations like Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, the United Arab Emirates, and Indonesia. Developing countries increasingly use the bloc to break free from Western dominance and revise the established economic world order.

    What is confirmed

    • Members of the 11-nation BRICS group, including China, Russia, Iran, and India, called for calm in the Middle East at a summit in New Delhi.
    • The 18th BRICS Summit was held in the Indian capital of New Delhi amid mounting geopolitical tension, energy market disruptions, shipping, and global trade.
    • BRICS currently comprises ten or eleven countries depending on official sources, including recent additions such as Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, and Indonesia.

    Still unconfirmed

    • US President Donald Trump views the BRICS grouping as a potential threat to the dominant world order.

    What to watch next

    • Further implementation of economic cooperation and trade opportunities agreed upon by BRICS member states.
    • Future diplomatic initiatives regarding the Russia-Ukraine war and Middle East crises.
    Sources used for this update (26)
    1. www.wionews.com — Two fronts, one stage: Russia-Ukraine and West Asia crises ...
    2. www.thedailystar.net — BRICS Summit 2026 India Xi Putin Modi | BRICS for ‘maximum ...
    3. infobrics.org — BRICS portal
    4. www.cfr.org — What Is the BRICS Group and Why Is It Expanding?
    5. brics.org — BRICS Information and Trade Opportunities
    6. en.wikipedia.org — BRICS - Wikipedia
    7. ideas-brics.org — What is BRICS? BRICS Explained – IDEAS-BRICS
    8. www.thedailystar.net — The evolution of BRICS and its challenges today
    9. en.wikipedia.org — Member states of BRICS - Wikipedia
    10. www.thecollector.com — What Is BRICS and Why Is it Important? - TheCollector
    11. www.wionews.com — BRICS Summit 2026: How India is trying to shape a ... - WION
    12. fr.wikipedia.org — BRICS+ — Wikipédia
    confidence 95%

  6. BRICS Members Sign New Delhi Declaration Amid Internal Rivalries

    The 18th BRICS Summit concluded in New Delhi with the adoption of the New Delhi Declaration, signifying a consensus on trade restrictions, terrorism, and Global South representation. The event brought together rivals, including India, China, Iran, and the UAE, to coordinate a push for a multipolar world. While Russian President Vladimir Putin described the current Western-led world order as collapsing, the bloc remains a 10-member grouping struggling with internal contradictions. India and China now seek wider partnerships in politics, security, and finance to increase the group's global influence.

    Why it matters

    The summit occurred as the bloc reached its 20th anniversary. It serves as a platform for members to challenge post-Cold War international structures and seek a fairer multilateral system. India's role as host highlights its strategy of multi-alignment between competing global powers.

    What is confirmed

    • The 18th BRICS Summit took place on 12 and 13 September in New Delhi.
    • The summit produced a joint declaration signed by all members.
    • The New Delhi Declaration includes consensus on terrorism, trade restrictions, and Global South representation.
    • India served as the 2026 chair and China will serve as the 2027 chair.
    • The summit included leaders from India, China, Russia, Iran, and the UAE.

    Still unconfirmed

    • The global geopolitical landscape is undergoing a profound structural shift marked by a coordinated pushback against the post-Cold War international order.
    • Vladimir Putin claimed the world economy is experiencing a period of profound structural change with new growth centers challenging Western dominance.

    What to watch next

    • China's implementation of 'Greater BRICS' economic ties during its 2027 chairship
    • Evidence of the 10-member grouping overcoming internal contradictions in future policy
    • Concrete actions taken on the New Delhi Declaration's trade and security goals
    Sources used for this update (9)
    1. tribune.com.pk — How BRICS is filling the void - The Express Tribune
    2. www.thedailystar.net — BRICS 2026: Can the Expanded Grouping Deliver? | The Daily Star
    3. www.thedailystar.net — Xi pushes 'Greater BRICS' economic ties to give bloc larger ...
    4. www.globalissues.org — BRICS: Growing Ambition, Zero Accountability - Global Issues
    5. english.khabarhub.com — Geopolitical Tightrope: How the 18th BRICS Summit Redefined ...
    6. thehimalayantimes.com — The dual-engine pushback: How BRICS and SCO Summits ...
    7. spmrf.org — Bharat’s Vision of BRICS: An Antidote to Global Disorder and ...
    8. thedefenderngr.com — ‘Your World Order Is Collapsing’: Putin Challenges Western ...
    9. www.wionews.com — Did BRICS Summit 2026 prove that an 11-member bloc ... - WION
    confidence 90%

  7. BRICS Summit: Bloc's Challenge to Western Dominance Remains Unresolved

    The 18th BRICS summit in New Delhi showcased expanding ambitions but also exposed internal contradictions and divisions. Members focus on supply chains and alternative payment methods, but its capability to challenge a Western-dominated world order remains uncertain. The bloc's push for global multipolarity and a fairer multilateral system was reiterated, but a common currency and unified anti-Western stance are not on the agenda.

    Why it matters

    The BRICS grouping, comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and newer members, aims to challenge the Western-led order. However, nearly two decades after its inception, the bloc's future and effectiveness in doing so remain uncertain due to geopolitical divisions and weak institutional clarity.

    What is confirmed

    • The BRICS bloc consists of Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
    • The 18th BRICS summit was held in New Delhi on September 12-13, 2026.
    • The New Delhi Declaration emphasized the bloc's push for global multipolarity and a fairer multilateral system.
    • BRICS members are focusing on local-currency trade and payment interoperability, rather than a common currency.

    Still unconfirmed

    • Some experts say BRICS need not replace the West to succeed – only make Western dominance harder to exercise.

    What to watch next

    • The next BRICS summit
    • Implementation of local-currency trade and payment interoperability
    • Progress on institutional reform and multipolarity
    Sources used for this update (6)
    1. www.thesoutheastasiadesk.com — Southeast Asia BRICS Summit 2026: Geopolitics & Key Takeaways
    2. www.europesays.com — BRICS Rising: Reimagining Global Geopolitics And The Emerging ...
    3. voiceoftheproletariat.substack.com — Cognitive-Evolutionary Analysis of BRICS+ Cohesion and the ...
    4. quixnet.net — BRICS summit: Is the bloc truly challenging a Western ...
    5. thearabianpost.com — BRICS is not building a new order, but a hedge against the ...
    6. thinkbrics.substack.com — BRICS+ and the West: Why More Options Feel Like a Threat
    confidence 80%

  8. BRICS Summit Highlights Ambitions and Divisions

    The 18th BRICS summit held in Delhi on September 12-13 showcased the expanding ambitions of the grouping. However, geopolitical divisions and weak institutional clarity continue to challenge the long-term future of the bloc. While members focus on maintaining supply chains and alternative payment methods, internal contradictions persist regarding its capability to truly challenge a Western-dominated world order.

    Why it matters

    The summit signals a refusal by parts of the Global South to treat Russia and Iran as pariah states despite Western isolation efforts. Although the bloc faces questions about underperforming, member nations continue to address global energy stability and trade mechanisms.

    What is confirmed

    • The 18th summit of BRICS was held in Delhi on September 12-13.

    Still unconfirmed

    • The BRICS bloc is currently underperforming due to geopolitical divisions and weak institutional clarity.

    What to watch next

    • Future institutional developments within the BRICS bloc
    • Concrete actions regarding cross-border payments and national currencies in trade
    Sources used for this update (2)
    1. today.thefinancialexpress.com.bd — Is BRICS underperforming?
    2. thediplomat.com — BRICS 2026 Reveals Ambition, Contradictions, and Uncertain Futures
    confidence 80%

  9. Global South rejects isolation of Russia and Iran at New Delhi summit

    The New Delhi BRICS summit signals a refusal by much of the Global South to treat Russia and Iran as pariah states, despite Western efforts to isolate them. Leaders from India, China, Russia, and Iran focused on maintaining supply chains and cross-border payments. While the bloc unanimously approved a declaration protecting civilian infrastructure and global energy stability, the final document did not mention de-dollarization, though members continued to support using national currencies for trade.

    Why it matters

    The summit occurs amid regional tensions in the Middle East and Western sanctions targeting specific BRICS members. These meetings test whether the bloc can create a viable alternative to Western-led financial and political systems.

    What is confirmed

    • BRICS members unanimously approved a declaration focusing on the stability of global energy and trade supplies and the protection of civilian infrastructure.
    • The bloc opposed the forced displacement of Palestinians and urged restraint in the Middle East.
    • The final summit document omitted any mention of de-dollarization.
    • Leaders from China, Russia, India, and Iran participated in the summit.

    Still unconfirmed

    • Much of the Global South rejects the isolation of Russia and Iran.

    What to watch next

    • Implementation of national currency trade agreements
    • Future BRICS declarations on Western sanctions
    • Changes to cross-border payment mechanisms between member states
    Sources used for this update (2)
    1. thediplomat.com — The New Delhi BRICS Summit Sends Powerful Messages to America
    2. seekingalpha.com — Weekly Commentary: Walked The Walk
    confidence 80%

  10. BRICS Leaders Adopt New Delhi Declaration on Trade and Middle East Security

    BRICS nations unanimously approved a declaration in New Delhi focusing on the protection of civilian infrastructure and the stability of global energy and trade supplies. The bloc urged restraint in the Middle East and opposed the forced displacement of Palestinians. While the members backed the use of national currencies for trade, the final document omitted any mention of de-dollarization. The summit included leaders from Russia, China, Iran, and India, who sought to maintain cross-border payments and supply chain movement despite regional tensions.

    Why it matters

    The summit reflects an attempt by non-Western powers to coordinate on global governance and security. Tensions in the Middle East and volatile supply chains have pushed the bloc to formalize positions on sanctions, tariffs, and artificial intelligence.

    What is confirmed

    • BRICS leaders unanimously adopted a declaration in New Delhi on Saturday.
    • The declaration calls for cooperation to maintain the flow of energy, goods, and supply chains across borders.
    • The bloc urged restraint in the Middle East and warned against attacks on civilian infrastructure, specifically nuclear facilities.
    • The New Delhi Declaration backs trade in national currencies.
    • Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted the summit with attendees including Vladimir Putin, Xi Jinping, and Masoud Pezeshkian.

    Still unconfirmed

    • The Delhi Declaration made no mention of de-dollarization.

    What to watch next

    • Implementation of cross-border payment systems using national currencies
    • Specific policy actions regarding the bloc's positions on AI and tariffs
    Sources used for this update (4)
    1. jen.jiji.com — BRICS declaration links Middle East security with trade and energy
    2. southasianherald.com — Capital Latitude: BRICS Without Blocs
    3. thediplomat.com — India-hosted BRICS Summit Steers Clear of Contentious Moves
    4. www.chiangraitimes.com — BRICS Summit Concludes in India: Highlights From the Final Day
    confidence 90%

  11. BRICS Leaders Call for Restraint in Middle East and New Global Order

    BRICS nations adopted a joint declaration on Saturday urging maximum restraint in the Middle East and advocating for a multilateral approach. While members agree on the need for a new global order, they remain divided on how to implement it. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian used the summit to reject the role of the United States as a regional policeman, arguing that regional security depends on local players. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi warned that supply chain shocks and geopolitical tensions currently threaten global stability.

    Why it matters

    The 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi serves as a platform for non-Western powers to challenge traditional geopolitical structures. These discussions occur amid ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and disputes over the control of the Strait of Hormuz.

    What is confirmed

    • BRICS nations unanimously adopted a joint declaration urging maximum restraint in the Middle East.
    • The group advocated for a multilateral approach to Middle East conflicts that respects national viewpoints.
    • Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated that the Middle East does not need the United States to act as a regional policeman.
    • Prime Minister Narendra Modi warned that climate crises, supply chain disruptions, and geopolitical tensions affect people worldwide.

    Still unconfirmed

    • BRICS members are divided on what should replace the current global order and how to achieve that transition.
    • The summit participants voiced concern over deliberate attacks on peaceful nuclear facilities under U.N. atomic energy agency safeguards.

    What to watch next

    • Details on the specific mechanisms proposed to replace the current global order
    • Responses from the United States regarding the rejection of its regional security role
    • Implementation of the multilateral approach outlined in the joint declaration
    Sources used for this update (5)
    1. www.nbcnews.com — At BRICS summit, China, Russia and India urge ‘maximum restraint’ in Middle East
    2. www.pbs.org — BRICS leaders voice concern over Middle East, condemn unilateral sanctions at India summit
    3. english.aawsat.com — Pezeshkian Says Middle East Has No Need for US 'Policeman'
    4. www.clickondetroit.com — At BRICS, India's Modi warns geopolitical tensions and supply chain shocks threaten global stability
    5. www.bbc.com — Iran war reshapes Brics ties but also exposes divisions
    confidence 90%

  12. India Hosts 18th BRICS Summit Amid Global Tensions

    India is hosting the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi on September 12 and 13 as part of its 2026 chairship. World leaders including Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping have gathered as the bloc addresses global tensions, tariffs, and geopolitical rifts. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated at the summit that uncertainty and complexity are defining features of the current world. Meanwhile, local residents are facing traffic chaos in New Delhi due to the high-profile meetings.

    Why it matters

    The bloc is holding its summit at a critical juncture marked by global wars and economic pressures. Discussions involve local currencies, global trade, and US sanctions, while the shadow of Donald Trump looms over the proceedings. Internal unity is currently being tested by conflicts involving Iran.

    What is confirmed

    • India is hosting the 18th BRICS Summit on September 12 and 13 as part of its 2026 chairship.
    • External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated that uncertainty and complexity are defining features of the world.
    • Tariffs, geopolitical rifts, local currencies, global trade, and US sanctions are dominating discussions at the New Delhi summit.

    Still unconfirmed

    • The Iran war is testing bloc unity during the summit.

    What to watch next

    • Conclusive statements from leaders on local currencies and trade policies
    • Official joint communiques regarding US sanctions and tariffs
    Sources used for this update (9)
    1. Reuters — India hosts BRICS summit as Iran war tests bloc unity
    2. NDTV — BRICS At 20: How Big It Is, And Why It Matters To India And The World
    3. AP News — New Delhi residents face traffic chaos as India prepares to hosts BRICS summit
    4. timesofindia.indiatimes.com — BRICS Summit 2026 Live Updates: ‘Uncertainty, complexity defining features of world around us,’ EAM Jaishankar at Brics summit
    5. BBC — Trump shadow looms large over Brics as Modi hosts Putin and Xi in Delhi
    6. Al Jazeera — BRICS summit: Is the bloc truly challenging a Western-dominated world?
    7. The Times of India — Local currencies, global trade & US sanctions: PM Modi, Putin & Pezeshkian send a message to Trump
    8. www.aljazeera.com — BRICS summit opens in New Delhi amid wars, global tensions, tariffs
    9. viewsbangladesh.com — BRICS summit: Is the bloc truly challenging a Western-dominated world?
    confidence 95%
📊

Community Sentiment: How do you assess this situation?

Voice your perspective · Real-time aggregated sentiment from the Live Feeds community