With geopolitical tensions rising, there are two sides establishing themselves. The West, or more notably the United States, and the global south are poised to face off. With economic policy targeting the BRICS bloc, will US President Donald Trump dissuade Saudi Arabia from potentially joining the collective?

The Middle Eastern nation has long been connected to the economic alliance. It was invited to join the group in 2023 in an invitation that it had accepted. However, it has since wavered on that and has continued internal discussions on whether or not to align with the group. Now, the question is, has Trump given the nation enough of a reason to steer clear?

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Is Trump Ensuring Saudi Arabia Stays Away From BRICS?

There is no denying that geopolitical tensions are reaching a fever pitch. US President Donald Trump has enacted tariffs on a host of nations. Although some have been delayed, he has not spared China as he looks to ensure BRICS nations remain committed to the US dollar.

Although retaliation has already been present, the move may be working to dissuade future entries into the group. Over the last two years, they have integrated a notable expansion effort, doubling in size. But could the US be creating a barrier of entry for prospective nations? Specifically, could BRICS be stunned as Trump could make it difficult for Saudi Arabia to join the group?

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The nation has yet to formally accept a place in the collective. That is due to the geopolitical implications of aligning its interests with the group. Indeed, Riyadh had previously said it is delaying the invitation “due to Western perceptions about this association. Iran’s involvement in the Red Sea crisis and Ireali-US pressures.” Interstingly, that all took place under the Biden administration; it may have only gotten worse under the new president.

Trump views BRICS as a vehicle for de-dollarization. That perspective has spurned him into action, as he believes he is saving the world’s currency. Moreover, his harsh economic policies show his view of the bloc as a clear threat, and association with it could come with worrisome geopolitical ramifications.