[Reuters] Disunity in BRICS+ as U.S. Secures Oil Bloc Support

BRICS+ scrambles to present a united front in response to the newly reported U.S. alliance with major oil-producing states and growing accusations that BRICS+ nations are fueling global financial instability. Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have reaffirmed their commitment to continued investment in U.S. markets and defense cooperation, despite previous signals suggesting a shift away from the U.S. dollar. BRICS+ members voiced concern over the recent developments during a meeting earlier on today. India’s delegate described the move as "treason," adding that while petrol monarchies may remain tied to the U.S. dollar, BRICS+ nations have the capacity to diversify and pursue an alternative economic path. 

In a brief interview with Reuters following the meeting, a Chinese delegate said the actions of Saudi Arabia and the UAE suggest the United States is "afraid" and views BRICS+ as a credible competitor in global trade. However, the delegate also voiced frustration with some BRICS+ members, calling it “cowardice”  for not taking a firmer stance against Washington’s recent moves. “With the recent news we can already see half of these countries striving for an appeasement policy, like Iran, however we are not afraid.”  The delegate disclosed. 

The Iranian delegation was surprised to hear this, responding “I would not say we are appeasing the US, maybe China is saying this because we are opposed to the yuan as a central currency for BRICS”. The delegate described the accusations as “unwarranted,” and expressed disappointment over recent developments involving their “Arab friends” in the UAE. Reaffirming its commitment to the BRICS+ mission, Iran suggested the bloc explore alternatives such as cryptocurrency and technological cooperation to counter the dominance of the U.S. dollar. “We want to elevate local currencies. We don’t want to appease anyone, not even China,” the delegate added.

As the BRICS+ meetings continue, questions remain over whether the group can overcome internal divisions and establish a cohesive economic front in response to mounting global pressure.