• BRICS leaders gathered in Rio de Janeiro to discuss reforms of global institutions.
• Brazil's President Lula emphasizes the bloc's role in defending multilateralism.
• Over 30 nations expressed interest in joining BRICS amid expanding diplomatic efforts.

Leaders of the BRICS group of developing nations convened in Rio de Janeiro, calling for reform of traditional Western institutions while presenting the bloc as a defender of multilateralism in a fractured global landscape. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva emphasized the need for emerging nations to "defend the multilateral trade regime and reform the international financial architecture" amid rising protectionism, a theme echoed by multiple sources in the lead-up to the summit according to Reuters, The Jakarta Post, and Channel News Asia.

The summit's ambiance was characterized by a strong commitment to solidarity among its members, which represent over half of the world's population and 40 percent of its economic output. Lula's remarks reflect a deep desire to position BRICS as a response to the shortcomings of established groups like the G7 and G20, which have faced internal divisions, particularly with the U.S. government under President Donald Trump's "America First" policy, noted by Reuters, The Jakarta Post, and Channel News Asia.

However, the summit faced challenges regarding the diversity of the BRICS membership, which includes a mix of regional rivals. Notably, Chinese President Xi Jinping attended only through a delegation led by Premier Li Qiang, while Russian President Vladimir Putin participated online due to an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court. This has raised speculation about the dynamics of leadership within BRICS, as highlighted by experts noting the potential implications of Xi's absence on the summit's outcome, according to The Jakarta Post and Reuters.

In a pointed remark about U.S. tariffs, which have become a focal point of contention, BRICS leaders reiterated their opposition to what they termed "unjustified unilateral protectionist measures." Trump's stringent tariff threats faced direct criticism during the summit, aligning the bloc more closely against U.S. economic policies, as they collectively voiced concerns over rising geopolitical tensions and military actions, particularly in the Middle East. This sentiment was further echoed in commentary from multiple outlets, including The Jakarta Post and Channel News Asia.

During discussions, BRICS leaders not only focused on economic challenges but also called for moral support for member nations facing military aggression. They collectively condemned the bombardments in Gaza and military incursions affecting Iran while advocating for clearer pathways towards reforming multinational organizations like the United Nations Security Council and the International Monetary Fund. This collective stance indicates an evolving nature of BRICS as a significant player in global diplomacy, as discussed by Reuters and The Jakarta Post.