Putin Hosts Global South Leaders, Pushing for BRICS Expansion and Financial Cooperation

Russian President Vladimir Putin held a summit with leaders from China, India, and other countries part of the BRICS group. This alliance, originally made up of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, has grown by including nations like Iran, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia. The focus of the meeting was to explore financial cooperation and expand the BRICS bloc, aiming to challenge Western influence. Putin discussed creating an alternative to Western-dominated payment systems, noting the need for such a move due to sanctions against Russia.China’s President Xi Jinping also attended the summit, stressing the importance of BRICS in global security and governance. India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi supported dialogue and diplomacy rather than conflict. The three-day event in Kazan highlights Russia’s efforts to solidify ties with the Global South despite Western isolation attempts.