BRICS leaders on Monday dismissed US President Donald Trump’s claim that the bloc is “anti-American,” following his threat to impose fresh tariffs on member countries. Speaking at the conclusion of the BRICS summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva stated, “The world doesn’t need an emperor,” and emphasized the bloc’s aim to reshape global trade dynamics, Firstpost reported.

Lula reiterated his stance against the overreliance on the US dollar in international trade, calling for responsible coordination between central banks to explore alternative systems. Trump had previously warned BRICS nations of potential 100 percent tariffs if efforts to weaken the dollar continued.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa downplayed tensions, saying BRICS does not seek rivalry but cooperation. China also responded cautiously, with foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stating that tariffs should not be used as pressure tools, and reaffirmed BRICS’ commitment to “win-win” collaboration, according to Firstpost.