On the eve of his inauguration as president of the United States, Donald Trump has sent sharp threats to the BRICS countries, warning them against creating a new currency capable of replacing the US dollar. In his message on the Truth Social platform, he stated that any attempts to develop an alternative currency would lead to unprecedented duties on goods from these countries, which would significantly undermine their trade ties with the United States. "We demand assurances from these countries that they will not create a new BRICS currency and will not support any other currency that undertakes to replace the mighty US dollar," Trump emphasized.
These statements once again emphasize the stable dominance of the dollar in the international financial system and indicate the firm intention of the United States to maintain control over its currency. In fact, Trump hints at the choice that the BRICS countries faced: the desire for economic independence or continued dependence on the American market. Urging them to "find another"sucker," he focuses on the desire of the United States to preserve its privileges in world trade.
On the other hand, the BRICS, which includes Russia, China, India, South Africa and Brazil, have stepped up efforts in recent months to reduce dependence on the dollar. In the summer, the Russian Ministry of Finance announced the launch of the BRICS Bridge platform for settlements in national currencies, including digital formats. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov noted that such an initiative attracts the attention of many countries in search of alternative trade methods that will help avoid Western control.
Russian President Vladimir Putin also criticized the use of the dollar as an instrument of political manipulation. He described this as a "big mistake" that undermines confidence in the dollar and reduces its importance in the global economy. According to him, despite the need to use the dollar in international trade, Russia should look for alternatives to avoid unwanted dependencies.
This situation is alarming among Western observers. The Financial Times noted that Putin's actions to promote alternative financial mechanisms within the framework of the BRICS call into question the existing global financial order based on the dominance of the United States. This highlights the importance of the initiatives under consideration for the global economy, as they can lead to significant changes in international trade and financial flows.
Thus, the confrontation between the United States and the BRICS is becoming more acute. Countries seeking to reduce their dependence on the dollar may face harsh economic responses from the American side. This confrontation is shaping a new landscape for international trade and financial settlements, where traditional mechanisms are beginning to lose their effectiveness and stability.
