BRICS Summit: Big Talk, Bigger Challenges in Brazil

The BRICS summit is happening in Brazil, and it's shaping up to be a bit of a mixed bag. The group, which includes major developing economies, has grown a lot recently, but that might not be all good news. Some experts think the group might struggle to speak with one voice, especially when it comes to tricky topics like the war in Ukraine or the conflict in Gaza. Brazil, as the host, has some ideas it wants to push, like talking about climate change and artificial intelligence. But it's also trying to keep things low-key, maybe to avoid getting on the wrong side of the U. S. president. China and Russia, two big players in BRICS, won't be there in person. China's leader is skipping the summit, and Russia's president is joining by video because he can't travel easily right now. This could make it harder for the group to take a strong stand on global issues. The summit is also a chance for Brazil to talk about things like global health and trade. But with the U. S. president threatening big tariffs, Brazil might be playing it safe to protect its economy. Not everyone is showing up. Some leaders from newer BRICS countries, like Iran and Egypt, won't be there. This could make it even harder for the group to act together. Despite the challenges, the summit is still important. It's a chance for developing countries to work together and find new ways to grow their economies. For Brazil's president, it's also a break from some tough times at home. The summit could also help push forward talks on climate change before a big meeting later this year in Brazil.