Global South's Interest in Joining BRICS Amidst Russia's Isolation Efforts

The BRICS summit, held in Kazan, Russia, gathered more than 20 world leaders, emphasizing Russia's ability to maintain and develop relationships internationally despite Western attempts to isolate it following the ongoing war in Ukraine. This summit serves as a critical platform for discussing key issues among emerging economies, particularly those from the Global South, who are increasingly disillusioned with the existing international order dominated by the United States. Among the prominent topics was the proposal for an alternative international payment system aimed at reducing reliance on the US dollar, a move intended to shield BRICS economies from Western sanctions. As many member countries experience challenges due to cross-border trade linked to dollar transactions, the motivation for this initiative is evident within the context of geopolitical tensions. However, the proposal remains in its infancy, indicating that further collaboration will be needed to realize such systems. Interestingly, while some countries express solidarity with Russia, others, including India and Brazil, show caution regarding the extent to which they wish to engage with Russia amid its aggressive policies in Ukraine. These mixed sentiments indicate a complex dynamic within BRICS, where the desire for unity is tempered by political sensitivities. Ultimately, the perception that Russia is isolated is challenged by the participation of these various nations in discussions at the summit, as they seek to redefine their roles within the global economic framework and engage critically with issues that impact their interests.