Donald Trump, the U.S. incumbent president, has issued a stern warning to BRICS nations regarding their plans to create a single currency. On Truth Social, Trump declared the U.S. won’t “stand and watch” as BRICS countries try to shift away from the dollar.
“We demand these countries pledge not to create a new BRICS currency or back any currency to replace the powerful U.S. dollar,” he wrote. Otherwise, Trump threatened “100 percent duties” and warned nations to “say goodbye to the fantastic U.S. economy.” He firmly stated, “There’s no chance BRICS will replace the U.S. dollar in international trade.”
BRICS, comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—with new members like Saudi Arabia and Iran—aims to challenge U.S. dominance. While they’ve discussed reducing reliance on the dollar, internal economic and political differences cast doubt on the feasibility of a unified currency.
Trump’s tariff threats extend beyond BRICS. He’s vowed heavy duties on goods from Canada, Mexico, and China, citing issues like illegal immigration and crime. After meeting Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in Florida, Trump described the talks as “productive.” However, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed concerns over the proposed tariffs.
Historically, Trump has leveraged tariffs as a tool to advance U.S. interests, pressure rivals, and bolster America’s economic sway on the global stage.