At the 2025 Rio de Janeiro BRICS Summit, a crucial message emerged not all BRICS nations are aligned with Russia’s anti-Western rhetoric. While Moscow sought to rally the bloc into a more confrontational stance against Western influence, member nations like India, Brazil, and South Africa emphasized a more balanced, cooperative global order. The summit revealed growing divisions within the bloc and highlighted that BRICS, despite its global ambitions, is far from a monolith.
The Context: BRICS Expands, But Not in One Direction
With new members like Egypt, Iran, and Ethiopia joining the BRICS ranks, many expected a more forceful geopolitical realignment. Russia, facing continued Western sanctions, aimed to position BRICS as an alternative global power structure. However, internal dynamics quickly exposed that each member’s goals and alliances vary widely, often clashing with Russia’s vision.
Brazil’s Stance: Diplomacy Over Division
As host, Brazil took the lead in setting a moderate tone. President Lula da Silva focused on global development, climate finance, and South-South cooperation—steering clear of sharp anti-West sentiments. His emphasis on inclusivity and diplomacy directly contrasted with Russia’s aggressive posture.
India: Strategic Autonomy in Action
India walked a tightrope, promoting multipolarity while maintaining strong trade and defense ties with the U.S. and Europe. Prime Minister Modi underscored the need for reforms in global institutions like the UN and IMF but carefully avoided echoing Russia’s combative language.
South Africa: Prioritizing Pragmatism
South Africa also leaned toward pragmatic diplomacy, seeking economic collaboration and sustainable development over geopolitical rivalry. While acknowledging global power imbalances, it reiterated its commitment to dialogue and multilateralism.
Russia’s Isolation Within BRICS
The Rio Summit highlighted that Russia is increasingly isolated, even within alliances it helped build. Moscow’s hope of weaponizing BRICS into a Western counterweight fell flat, exposing a rift between rhetoric and reality. The takeaway? BRICS is more about cooperation than confrontation, and Russia may need to recalibrate its approach.
