U.S. President Donald Trump has declared the BRICS economic bloc “dead,” claiming his administration’s trade policies forced its collapse.
The BRICS alliance, consisting of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, has been working toward reducing reliance on the U.S. dollar, an initiative Trump has fiercely opposed.
Speaking at a press briefing, Trump took credit for what he described as the bloc’s downfall.
“BRICS was established with ill intentions, and many of its members have lost interest.
“They contemplated undermining our dollar by creating a new currency. I made it clear: any BRICS nation attempting this would face a 150% tariff on their exports to the U.S. Since then, BRICS has disbanded.” Trump stated.
Trump’s remarks follow a series of warnings from his administration.
Earlier this month, he threatened 100% tariffs on BRICS countries if they pursued a currency alternative to the U.S. dollar.
“We will not trade with any country trying to play games with our dollar. And if we do, they will pay massive tariffs,” he warned.
Despite Trump’s declaration, there has been no official confirmation from BRICS member states regarding a breakup.
In fact, preparations are already underway for the next BRICS summit, scheduled for July 6–7 in Rio de Janeiro.
Brazil, which currently holds the BRICS presidency, has outlined an agenda focusing on global governance reforms and strengthening cooperation among emerging economies.
However, Trump’s latest comments come amid rising tensions between the U.S. and China, particularly in Latin America, where Beijing has been expanding its economic influence.
China has strengthened its partnerships in the region, while the U.S. has responded with economic measures against countries deepening ties with Beijing.
Most importantly, BRICS remains intact, with its member nations continuing their cooperation.
