Putin Hosts BRICS Summit Amid Ukraine Discussions

The 16th BRICS Summit, hosted by Russia in Kazan from October 22-24, 2024, aims to establish the bloc as a counterweight to Western influence in global governance. Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized BRICS as a key driver of global economic growth, while Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri highlighted India's crucial contributions to the bloc's efforts in sustainable development and governance reforms. The summit will see participation from delegations of 36 nations, including significant meetings between Putin, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Chinese President Xi Jinping, focusing on global challenges, including the ongoing Ukraine crisis. The presence of UN Secretary-General António Guterres, despite the UN's condemnation of Russia's actions, further complicates the narrative of Russia's diplomatic isolation. Analysts view the summit as a platform for Russia to showcase its resilience and reinforce partnerships with emerging economies amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. The expanded BRICS membership signifies shifting global power dynamics and could reshape international relations with alternatives to the US-led order.