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President Donald Trump has threatened to impose additional tariffs on BRICS members after the group condemned the use of tariffs.

Some shit you should know before you read: If you’re unaware, BRICS is an economic alliance originally consisting of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. Its stated goal is to promote cooperation among emerging economies and create “a more balanced global financial system.” BRICS also seeks to reduce reliance on the US dollar in international trade, particularly due to concerns about the dollar being used as a tool of economic sanctions by the West. Additional members include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the UAE, & Indonesia.

What’s going on now: In a notable development, President Trump warned that he would impose additional tariffs on countries aligning themselves with BRICS, following the bloc’s criticism of rising unilateral trade actions. “Any Country aligning themselves with the Anti-American policies of BRICS will be charged an ADDITIONAL 10% Tariff. There will be no exceptions to this policy. Thank you for your attention to this matter!”  

The warning came in response to a BRICS summit declaration expressing “serious concerns” over rising tariff measures, which they said “distort trade” and violate WTO rules. The group warned that such tariffs could disrupt global supply chains and reduce trade while reaffirming support for a WTO-centered, rules-based trading system. Notably, the statement avoided naming the United States or President Trump directly.

In response to Trump’s threats, a China’s Foreign Ministry spokeswoman said, “BRICS is an important platform for cooperation among emerging markets in developing countries. It advocates openness, inclusiveness, and willing cooperation. It is not a bloc for confrontation, nor does it target any country. On the U.S. tariff hikes, China has made its position clear more than once. Trade wars and tariff wars have no winners, and protectionism leads nowhere. We oppose trade wars and tariff wars. Tariff should not be used as a tool for coercion and pressuring. Arbitrary tariff hikes serve no one’s interest.”