BRICS in the headlines as members push amid US sanctions, naval drills with Iran, and new Africa-MENA ties. BRICS: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa.
Since early February, US sanctions and military actions have targeted Russia's energy sector and shipping, including seizing Russian oil tankers and blocking Starlink access. Russia criticizes these moves as illegal and aims to deepen ties with BRICS, while Ukraine peace talks remain stalled with a deadline set for June.
BRICS foreign ministers are meeting in New Delhi as Iran and the UAE remain at odds over the Gulf conflict. The group, now including Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia and Iran, is seeking a joint statement despite strain from regional actors and energy‑price pressures.