The Unyielding Ascent: Why BRICS Defies US Pressure and Redefines Global Power

In a powerful rebuke to prevailing narratives, a former US Treasury official has vociferously slammed past US administrations, particularly that of Donald Trump, for their misguided approach to the BRICS economic bloc. The core of the critique is sharp: why, the official questions, does the United States continue to set the bar for BRICS at "failure" when all signs point to its unwavering resilience and growing global influence? This isn't merely an academic debate; it's a fundamental challenge to how the West perceives, and interacts with, a rapidly evolving multilateral world order.

The official's comments underscore a critical flaw in US foreign policy — an almost wishful thinking that the BRICS coalition (comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, with more nations joining or expressing interest) would somehow, inevitably, collapse under its own weight or external pressure.

This perspective, they argue, is not only strategically unsound but actively detrimental, blinding Washington to the significant geopolitical and economic shifts unfolding worldwide.

BRICS, far from folding, has demonstrated remarkable cohesion and ambition. What began as an acronym for emerging economies has matured into a formidable alliance pushing for a more multipolar world.

Its members collectively represent a substantial portion of the global population, landmass, and economic output. Their agenda extends beyond mere trade, encompassing discussions on alternative financial systems, de-dollarization, infrastructure development, and a coordinated voice on international platforms.

This collective aspiration for greater equity in global governance makes them a force to be reckoned with, not dismissed.

The strategy of applying pressure, often seen during the Trump era with a focus on isolating perceived rivals, is depicted by the former official as counterproductive. Instead of fostering an environment for dialogue or understanding, such tactics can inadvertently strengthen the resolve of BRICS nations, compelling them to deepen their internal cooperation and solidify their alternative vision for global economic and political architecture.

To anticipate their collapse is to underestimate their strategic foresight and their shared interest in reducing dependency on Western-dominated institutions.

Moreover, the expansion of BRICS, with nations like Saudi Arabia, Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the UAE formally joining, further complicates the "failure" narrative.

This growth signifies a magnetic pull for countries seeking to diversify their alliances and economic partnerships, moving away from a unipolar global structure. These new additions bring not just economic weight but also strategic geopolitical leverage, enhancing the bloc's capacity to challenge traditional power dynamics.

The former Treasury official's plea is for a recalibration of US policy towards BRICS.

Rather than hoping for its demise, the US should engage with the bloc's realities, acknowledging its permanence and its integral role in the future of global relations. A more pragmatic approach would involve understanding BRICS's objectives, identifying areas for potential cooperation, and preparing for a future where global power is more distributed.

Setting the bar at failure, it is argued, is a self-defeating prophecy that squanders opportunities for constructive engagement and risks alienating a significant portion of the global community.

Ultimately, the message is clear: BRICS isn't going anywhere. It represents a fundamental shift in the international order, driven by the collective aspirations of billions.

For the United States and its allies, recognizing this enduring reality and adapting their strategies accordingly is not just smart policy; it's an imperative for navigating the complexities of the 21st century successfully.