October 24, 2024 – Russian President Vladimir Putin faced mounting calls for peace during the opening of the BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia, as the war in Ukraine remains a central focus of global concern. Leaders from major emerging economies — including Brazil, India, China, and South Africa — urged diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the conflict, warning that prolonged instability risks undermining the group’s economic agenda.
With the summit aimed at expanding BRICS cooperation, several participants emphasized the need for global stability to achieve long-term growth. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa advocated for dialogue between Russia and Ukraine, with Lula reiterating his earlier offers to mediate peace talks.
The summit has been positioned as a key moment for Russia to showcase its diplomatic alliances amidst Western sanctions and isolation over the invasion of Ukraine. However, many BRICS members have been balancing their strategic interests, engaging economically with Russia while also calling for an end to hostilities.
Chinese President Xi Jinping took a measured approach, reaffirming Beijing’s opposition to Western sanctions but also emphasizing the importance of dialogue and peaceful resolutions. China has been cautious, seeking to leverage its influence without alienating Russia or other global partners.
The war has complicated efforts to focus on expanding BRICS membership and enhancing cooperation in areas such as trade, energy, and digital currencies. The summit is expected to address plans for a common financial infrastructure independent of the US dollar, but geopolitical tensions have cast a shadow over these initiatives.
Putin defended Russia’s actions, reiterating that the conflict was a necessary response to Western provocations and security concerns. Despite his stance, pressure for peace is expected to intensify as the summit progresses, with many leaders highlighting the need for stability to achieve shared economic goals.
The Kazan summit comes as Russia seeks new allies in a multipolar world order, but the path forward remains uncertain.