The Russian president, Vladimir Putin, has voiced strong criticism of what he described as radical neoliberalism—a policy stance he says is pushed by the United States and the European Union and that he believes erodes long-standing cultural and social norms. Speaking via video link at the most recent BRICS press conference, Putin asserted that this approach threatens the construction of a new world order. He argued that liberal economic models favored by some countries are aimed at destabilizing traditional values that many societies still hold dear, including family structures, national customs, and religious beliefs.
Putin’s remarks emphasized a broader worldview in which economic and political reforms are weighed against their impact on cultural cohesion. He suggested that attempts to overhaul governance and social codes from abroad can undermine local traditions and the moral fabric he sees as central to national life. The rhetoric frames economic policy as not merely a technical issue but a civilizational one, influencing how communities organize themselves and transmit values to future generations.
In parallel, developments within the BRICS bloc have drawn attention. On August 24, the South African president announced an expansion plan that would add several new member countries to the coalition. The move is presented as a strategic step aimed at boosting investment flows and accelerating regional development, with officials indicating that the broadened alliance could enhance collective influence on global markets and financial stability. Kirill Dmitriev, chief executive of the Russian Direct Investment Fund, weighed in to describe the expansion as a key lever for broader economic growth and investment opportunities across the BRICS footprint.
Analysts have noted that the expansion could shift the balance of energy markets, given the bloc’s growing economic footprint. Official statistics and market analyses suggest that the enlarged BRICS will play an increasingly significant role in global energy dynamics, with projections pointing to substantial shares of the world’s oil reserves under its influence. While these estimates reflect potential, they underscore the bloc’s intent to assert greater influence over energy pricing, supply security, and investment in energy infrastructure across member regions.
Meanwhile, discussions within the BRICS framework continue to explore how the expanded coalition might enhance cooperation on trade, infrastructure, and technology. Observers have highlighted that the group’s growth could reshape alliances and strategic planning for both developed and emerging economies, potentially altering the pace and direction of international business and policy initiatives. The dialogue also touches on how member states balance national priorities with collective objectives, including the resilience of local industries and the preservation of cultural identity amid rapid change.