### Brazil Hosts BRICS Summit Amidst Caution Over U.S. Trade Policies The BRICS summit, taking place in Brazil, is characterized by a careful approach to sensitive topics, particularly U.S. trade tariffs under President Donald Trump. With key leaders absent, the summit aims to address pressing global issues without provoking controversy. The focus is on maintaining unity among the BRICS nations, which represent a significant portion of the world's population and economic output, while navigating the complexities of international relations and trade dynamics [https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/brazil-hosts-brics-summit-eager-to-avoid-provoking-trumps-ire-on-tariffs/article69779334.ece][https://www.usnews.com/news/world/articles/2025-07-06/brazil-hosts-brics-summit-eager-to-avoid-provoking-trumps-ire]. ### Structure of the BRICS Summit Discussion 1. **Trade Tariffs and Economic Concerns** - The summit is expected to address the "serious concerns" of BRICS nations regarding U.S. tariffs, which are viewed as detrimental to global trade [https://www.firstpost.com/world/brics-nations-voice-serious-concern-over-trump-tariffs-as-china-skips-the-summit-in-brazil-13903516.html]. 2. **Middle East Conflicts** - Discussions will also touch on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and Israel's actions against Iran, although these topics are approached with caution to avoid escalating tensions [https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/brics-nations-raise-serious-concerns-over-us-president-donald-trump-tariffs-in-draft-text-8831421]. 3. **Climate Change Initiatives** - The BRICS leaders are likely to emphasize the need for cooperative efforts to tackle climate change, contrasting with U.S. policies that may undermine global environmental agreements [https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-07-04/brics-set-to-condemn-coercive-tariffs-draft-statement-shows]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Global Economic Impact**: BRICS nations account for approximately **40% of global economic output** and represent about **half of the world's population**, highlighting their significant role in international trade discussions [https://www.firstpost.com/world/brics-nations-voice-serious-concern-over-trump-tariffs-as-china-skips-the-summit-in-brazil-13903516.html]. - **Draft Statements**: Preliminary drafts from the summit indicate a strong condemnation of U.S. tariffs, labeling them as "indiscriminate" and potentially harmful to the global economy [https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/brics-nations-raise-serious-concerns-over-us-president-donald-trump-tariffs-in-draft-text-8831421]. ### Conclusion: Navigating a Complex Global Landscape In summary, the BRICS summit in Brazil is a strategic gathering aimed at addressing critical global issues while carefully avoiding direct confrontation with U.S. policies. The discussions are structured around three main themes: 1. **Trade Tariffs**: Addressing the negative implications of U.S. tariffs on global trade. 2. **Middle East Conflicts**: Navigating sensitive geopolitical issues without escalating tensions. 3. **Climate Change**: Advocating for collaborative efforts to combat environmental challenges. The summit reflects the BRICS nations' desire to present a united front while managing the complexities of international relations and trade dynamics [https://www.houstonchronicle.com/news/world/article/brazil-hosts-brics-summit-eager-to-avoid-20611910.php][https://www.deccanchronicle.com/world/brics-nations-to-denounce-trump-tariffs-1889475].