Moscow: Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov has emphasized that the BRICS economic bloc has no intentions of evolving into a military alliance. In an interview with TASS, Ryabkov clarified the nature of BRICS, which consists of 11 members, as neither a military alliance nor a collective security organization with obligations for mutual military assistance.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Ryabkov stated that BRICS was never designed with a military focus and there are no plans to steer the organization in that direction. He highlighted that the group’s agenda does not include military exercises or arms control, pointing out that the recent naval exercise held in South Africa was not a BRICS event, but rather conducted by the participating nations in their own capacities. The exercise, ‘Will for Peace 2026,’ took place from January 9-16 and involved China, Iran, and Russia.
Addressing concerns about the potential for BRICS to protect member nations’ tankers from attacks, Ryabkov clarified that while the bloc can enhance logistics and safeguard against sanctions, it does not possess the capability for ensuring security through military means. The BRICS bloc, initially formed by Brazil, Russia, India, and China in 2009, expanded with South Africa’s inclusion in 2010. Recent additions include Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia, Indonesia, and Iran, bringing the total membership to 11, along with 10 partner countries.
Ryabkov noted that trade growth within BRICS countries surpasses the global average, underscoring the bloc’s potential in addressing challenges. He advocated for BRICS to show solidarity with Iran, mentioning ongoing contacts between Moscow, Beijing, and Tehran to create a conducive political atmosphere for negotiations between Iran and the United States.
The deputy foreign minister referenced indirect talks between the U.S. and Iran held in Muscat on February 6, mediated by Oman, to discuss Iran’s nuclear program. This marked the resumption of negotiations following an eight-month hiatus after U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities during the Iran-Israel conflict in June 2025. U.S. President Donald Trump has intensified the military presence in the region, urging Iran to reach an agreement amidst internal protests over Iran’s economic conditions. A key sticking point remains uranium enrichment, with the U.S. insisting that Iran cease enrichment activities and transfer its highly enriched uranium out of the country.