President Donald Trump is turning up the heat on the BRICS alliance, threatening a sweeping 10% tariff on any nation “aligning with anti-American policies.” The warning comes after the bloc—now including heavyweights like Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and Iran—took veiled swipes at U.S. trade policy and recent military actions during their summit in Rio de Janeiro.
“There will be no exceptions to this policy,” Trump declared on social media. “Any country siding with BRICS’ anti-American rhetoric will pay the price.”
At the summit, BRICS leaders denounced the rise of unilateral tariffs and protectionist moves, clearly aimed at Trump’s signature “America First” strategy. They also condemned the U.S.-backed military strikes on Iran, calling them violations of international law.
While the BRICS declaration avoided naming the U.S. outright, the intent was unmistakable. Trump, never one to let global critics go unchecked, fired back with tariffs—his go-to tool to defend U.S. interests.
Brazil’s President Lula hit back, calling Trump’s remarks “irresponsible” and accusing him of acting like an “emperor.” South Africa’s Cyril Ramaphosa urged a more respectful view of global power shifts.
But Trump isn’t backing down. Throughout his presidency, he’s framed tariffs as leverage to correct unfair trade practices and challenge adversaries. “Tariff is the most beautiful word in the dictionary,” he once said.
His supporters say he’s once again drawing a clear line: stand with America, or pay up.
As global tensions rise, Trump’s message to BRICS is loud and clear: the U.S. won’t tolerate subtle threats, economic or otherwise. With 2024 heating up, Trump is reminding the world that under his leadership, American strength comes with a price tag.
