Brazil hosts BRICS summit

Brazil will host a BRICS summit Sunday and Monday, with leaders expected to discuss sensitive issues like Israel’s attack on Iran, the Gaza crisis, and U.S. trade tariffs carefully. Analysts say the bloc’s recent expansion has made it less cohesive, limiting its ability to challenge Western dominance. Brazilian President Lula wants to focus on topics like artificial intelligence and climate change, while key leaders like China’s Xi Jinping and Russia’s Vladimir Putin will not attend in person, the Associated Press has reported. Observers expect a cautious final statement avoiding strong positions on conflicts, reflecting internal divisions and Brazil’s aim to keep the meeting technical and low‑profile.