Putin Hosts Expanded BRICS Summit in Kazan: New Members, Global Alliances, and Push for Alternative Payment Systems

October 21, 2024
Putin Hosts Expanded BRICS Summit in Kazan: New Members, Global Alliances, and Push for Alternative Payment Systems
  • This summit is particularly crucial for Putin, occurring two and a half years into the ongoing war in Ukraine, as he seeks to project strength despite facing Western sanctions.

  • In this context, UK Defense Minister John Healey indicated that Ukraine may seek advice on utilizing military funds effectively, potentially including long-range strike capabilities.

  • From October 22-24, Putin will host a significant BRICS summit in Kazan, welcoming new members including Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the UAE, alongside the original members Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.

  • Analysts view the event as an opportunity for Russia to demonstrate its global alliances and assert that it is not isolated, although there are questions about how aligned other nations will be with Russia's anti-Western stance.

  • While the U.S. has dismissed BRICS as a potential geopolitical rival, it remains concerned about Russia's diplomatic maneuvers and growing influence amid the Ukraine conflict.

  • The Kremlin aims to negotiate economic deals and strengthen ties with allies like India and China to bolster its economy and war efforts in light of ongoing Western sanctions.

  • Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has warned that a Russian victory could embolden other aggressors globally, raising concerns about future conflicts.

  • The timing of the summit is strategically significant, coinciding with the upcoming U.S. elections, which could alter U.S. support for Ukraine and impact international relations.

  • U.S. actions, such as seizing Russian assets and imposing strict sanctions, have unsettled global central banks and accelerated the trend of de-dollarization.

  • Putin has criticized U.S. sanctions as counterproductive, acknowledging the interconnectedness of the global economy, particularly between China and the United States.

  • Amid these discussions, Ukraine's energy ministry reported damage to a power supply line at the Zaporizhia nuclear power plant, raising safety concerns.

  • Speculation surrounds potential discussions at the summit regarding a common currency or alternative payment mechanisms to reduce reliance on foreign exchange.

Summary based on 46 sources


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