Part 8/10:
China, as expected, responded defensively, asserting that BRICS is not a bloc for confrontation but a platform for emerging economies cooperation. However, US officials interpret BRICS's actions as a challenge to American economic dominance. The group has also criticized NATO’s plan to increase defense spending to 5% of GDP by 2035, which many see as a counterbalance to U.S.-led NATO initiatives and Trump's push for European countries to bolster their own militaries.
Trump's broader strategy appears aimed at pressuring BRICS economies, with threats of severe tariffs, while also signaling readiness for further escalation if necessary.