Ukraine has expressed strong disapproval of United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres for reportedly accepting an invitation to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin during the upcoming BRICS summit. The Ukrainian foreign ministry criticized the decision, highlighting that Guterres declined an invitation to Ukraine's Global Peace Summit but agreed to meet with Putin in Kazan, Russia.
The meeting, set for Thursday, has not been confirmed by the U.N. Deputy spokesman Farhan Haq mentioned that announcements regarding Guterres' travels will be made later. This meeting marks the first interaction between Putin and Guterres in over two years, amidst Russia's involvement in the conflict in Ukraine.
The BRICS summit, comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, aims to strengthen economic partnerships and counter Western influence. The bloc, now expanded to include additional nations, represents a significant portion of the global economy and population.
Leaders from 22 countries, including India, China, Iran, and Turkey, are expected to attend the summit. Turkey's potential interest in joining BRICS has raised concerns among Western nations, given its recent alignment with Moscow despite being a NATO member.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while maintaining ties with Russia, has expressed support for peaceful resolution in Ukraine. The absence of Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel at the summit due to health reasons has been noted.
The geopolitical dynamics at the BRICS summit, with discussions on Ukraine, arms trade, and potential new memberships, underscore the complex relationships among participating nations.
