Russia is playing host to a crucial BRICS summit, positioning itself at the center of a global shift that aims to challenge the dominance of the West. BRICS, initially a group representing the rapidly developing economies of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, has evolved into a significant geopolitical forum. Its growing influence has attracted other nations like Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates, which recently joined, marking the group’s expansion and bolstering its clout.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is using this platform to promote his vision of a “new world order.” The summit, held in Kazan, Russia, offers Putin the opportunity to present BRICS as a key player in this emerging global order, seeking to rival the Western-led alliances and economic structures. The Russian leader frequently expresses his desire to reduce the global dependence on Western powers, especially the U.S., and to create a multipolar world where countries like Russia and China play central roles. 

Putin’s vision is not only about politics but also economic independence. At a pre-summit business forum, Putin emphasized BRICS’ economic power, noting that the member countries are drivers of global economic growth. He argued that the economic future of BRICS would increasingly depend less on Western influence, calling this “economic sovereignty.” His message resonates particularly with nations in the “Global South,” such as those in Asia, Africa, and Latin America, which are seeking alternatives to traditional Western economic dominance.

BRICS+ (the expanded BRICS group) is seen as an alternative institution to Western-dominated platforms like the G7. However, there are uncertainties about whether this new bloc can effectively challenge the West. According to experts, the group’s cohesion depends on their collective desire for economic growth and independence, but aligning their diverse geopolitical interests may prove difficult. 

While the summit focuses on global economic and political cooperation, one notable absence is a direct discussion of Russia’s war in Ukraine. The Kremlin has made it clear that the conflict is not on the official agenda, though participants can raise the issue if they wish. Instead, the talks are expected to focus on the escalating situation in the Middle East and cooperation with the Global South.

Key world leaders such as India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi and China’s President Xi Jinping are attending, further underlining the significance of this summit. Putin is also expected to meet with Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian to discuss a potential Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, signaling stronger military and defense ties amid the ongoing war in Ukraine.

As the BRICS summit progresses, it remains to be seen how effective this coalition will be in challenging Western hegemony. However, with its expanding membership and economic ambitions, BRICS+ certainly marks a shift in the global balance of power.