World leaders from major developing countries gather for a huge summit starting Sunday. The BRICS group meets to blast President Trump over his tough trade moves. These nations represent half the global population and control massive chunks of world business. Trump keeps threatening everyone with harsh import taxes that hurt their economies. His team plans to announce new fees on foreign goods next Friday.
China's leader Xi Jinping shocks everyone and decides to stay home. Putin from Russia also skips the meeting because he faces war crime charges. Both powerful men send lower-ranking officials instead of showing up themselves. Brazil's president Lula feels embarrassed since he wanted all the top leaders there. The missing heavyweight politicians make the whole event look less important.
Iran's president also cancels his trip after fighting Israel for nearly two weeks. The BRICS countries cannot agree on what to say about Middle East wars. Some want stronger language against Israel over Gaza violence. Others prefer softer statements that call for peace talks. Brazil hopes the group can speak as one voice despite their disagreements.
The expanded club started with just Brazil, Russia, India and China years ago. Saudi Arabia, Iran, Egypt and other nations joined recently to boost their power. More members means more influence but also creates new problems. Different countries want different things from the partnership.
Brazil desperately wants this summit to succeed before major elections next year. Lula faces tough competition and needs foreign policy wins to help his campaign.
China's leader Xi Jinping shocks everyone and decides to stay home. Putin from Russia also skips the meeting because he faces war crime charges. Both powerful men send lower-ranking officials instead of showing up themselves. Brazil's president Lula feels embarrassed since he wanted all the top leaders there. The missing heavyweight politicians make the whole event look less important.
Iran's president also cancels his trip after fighting Israel for nearly two weeks. The BRICS countries cannot agree on what to say about Middle East wars. Some want stronger language against Israel over Gaza violence. Others prefer softer statements that call for peace talks. Brazil hopes the group can speak as one voice despite their disagreements.
The expanded club started with just Brazil, Russia, India and China years ago. Saudi Arabia, Iran, Egypt and other nations joined recently to boost their power. More members means more influence but also creates new problems. Different countries want different things from the partnership.
Brazil desperately wants this summit to succeed before major elections next year. Lula faces tough competition and needs foreign policy wins to help his campaign.
