Leaders from the BRICS nations firmly pushed back against Donald Trump’s accusation that the group is “anti-American.” On Monday, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva made it clear that the world no longer needs dominant powers.
Lula Dismisses Trump’s Warning
Speaking at the end of the BRICS summit in Rio de Janeiro, Lula directly addressed Trump’s threat of new tariffs. He said, “The world has changed. We don’t want an emperor.” His statement followed Trump’s warning on Sunday night, where the US president said BRICS nations could face fresh “retaliatory tariffs” if they challenged American trade interests.
Lula explained that BRICS aims to reshape the global economy, not dominate it. “I think that’s why BRICS makes some people uncomfortable,” he added.
Trump’s Earlier Warning on the Dollar
Back in February, Trump had already warned BRICS countries against efforts to reduce the US dollar’s influence in world trade. He even threatened 100% tariffs if they pursued a separate currency.
By then, Brazil holding the BRICS presidency had already pulled back from pushing a shared currency, an idea that was suggested by some members last year.
Lula Advocates Diversifying Trade Currency
On Monday, Lula once again said global trade should not depend entirely on the dollar. He told reporters, “The world needs to find a way for our trade relations not to depend on the dollar.”
He added that any change should be careful and coordinated. “Of course, we have to do this carefully and responsibly. Our central banks need to talk with central banks in other countries,” Lula said.
Other BRICS Leaders Respond Calmly
While Lula took a bold stance, other BRICS leaders responded with restraint. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said BRICS does not want to rival other global powers. He also expressed optimism about possibly reaching a trade agreement with the US.
From China, foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said tariffs should not be used as threats. “Tariffs should not be used as a tool for coercion and pressure,” she stated during a press briefing in Beijing.
She emphasized BRICS’s peaceful approach: “BRICS supports win-win cooperation” and “does not target any country.”