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The undeniable dominance of China in BRICS

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China’s economic dominance in BRICS is undeniable, and if there’s any attempt by Russia for some reason, to try outmaneuver China within the group, it will be met with serious challenges.

However, Vladimir Putin still has leverage in key ways:

Russia’s Play for More Influence in BRICS

1. Energy Dominance – Russia is a major energy supplier to China, India, and other BRICS members. This gives Moscow bargaining power, especially as the West tries to cut off Russian oil and gas.
2. Defense & Military Ties – Many BRICS countries (especially India) rely on Russian military tech. Putin can use arms deals and security cooperation to strengthen Russia’s role.
3. Geopolitical Powerbroker – Russia has deeper ties with key regions (Middle East, Africa, and parts of Latin America). BRICS nations might need Russia’s influence in these areas, giving Moscow negotiating power.
4. Alternative Trade Routes – Russia is key in the push to build alternative trade networks outside Western control, including efforts to de-dollarize.
5. Nuclear Power & Strategic Depth – As a nuclear superpower, Russia adds military credibility to BRICS in a way that China alone can’t.

Limits to Putin’s Influence in BRICS

• China’s Economic Weight – At the end of the day, money talks. China’s massive economy means it controls much of BRICS’ financial agenda.
• India’s Balancing Act – India won’t let BRICS become a Russia-dominated club, as it’s already wary of China’s dominance.
• Brazil & South Africa’s Position – They don’t want BRICS to become just an anti-Western alliance. They may resist any Russian power play.

Possible Russian Strategy

• Strengthen Ties with India to Counterbalance China – If Russia can bring India closer, it weakens China’s grip on BRICS.
• Push for a Greater Role in BRICS Leadership & Institutions – Putin may try to position Russian officials in key BRICS financial and economic initiatives.
• Encourage BRICS Expansion on Russian Terms – Russia might push for new members (like Iran, which is closer to Moscow) to dilute China’s dominance.

Countering China

We are raising the question based on the attempts by US President Donald Trump to weaken China and the BRICS. One alternative for Trump is to attempt at manipulating Putin to get to BRICS and China and to limit China’s influence in the grouping.

This shows how Trump is worried about the rise of the BRICS.

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