For BRICS, the course is complicated

Source: Corriere del Ticino | Original Published At: 2026-01-17 17:55:00 UTC

Key Points

• BRICS expansion from 5 to 10 members has created coordination challenges, with Saudi Arabia delaying accession
• Member states show divergent responses to geopolitical crises, exemplified by Venezuela's military operation
• Economic interests conflict among members: China/Russia oppose West while Brazil/India seek balanced approaches
• BRICS accounts for ~30% of projected 2025 global GDP but remains economically smaller than G7's 45%
• Energy policy disagreements emerge between oil producers (Russia, Saudi Arabia) and potential new suppliers (Venezuela, Iran)