BRICS Summit Tests Unity as Bloc Eyes Major Expansion

The BRICS summit opened this week, marking two milestones: the group's first in-person meeting since the COVID-19 pandemic and its first gathering since inviting new members to join. The event also tests how united the bloc remains as it grows. BRICS stands for Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. The group began inviting other countries last year, part of a push to expand its global influence. Leaders now face a key question: can a larger group still speak with one voice? Member nations have different interests and ties to other powers, making agreement harder. The summit's outcome will show whether BRICS can turn its growing size into real clout — or whether expansion brings more division than strength.