Recent remarks by Howard Lutnick, a top economic adviser and Commerce Secretary under Donald Trump, have stirred diplomatic tensions as he claimed the United States needs to “fix” India and Brazil — both major members of the BRICS economic bloc. His comments reflect growing American frustration over trade barriers, energy deals with Russia, and BRICS efforts to reduce reliance on the US dollar.
Howard Lutnick laid out a clear set of demands in multiple public appearances and interviews over the past few months:
1. Opening Up Markets
Lutnick accuses both India and Brazil of maintaining excessively high tariffs and protectionist trade policies. He argues that these countries benefit from access to the US market while failing to reciprocate.
2. Reducing Ties with Russia
A major point of contention is India’s continued purchase of Russian oil and military hardware. Lutnick has urged India to stop doing business with Russia and instead buy weapons from the United States.
“Ditch Russia. Buy from us,” he bluntly stated during a speech in New Delhi.
3. Backing Off BRICS Currency Plans
Lutnick also expressed concern over BRICS discussions to create an alternative global currency, which he sees as a direct threat to US economic dominance and the primacy of the dollar.
“This doesn’t create love and affection with America,” he said, referring to BRICS initiatives aimed at de-dollarization.
India’s Response: Strategic Autonomy First
Indian officials and commentators have pushed back strongly on Lutnick’s remarks.
No Apologies: Political leaders, including prominent MPs, have rejected the notion that India will “apologize” or bow to US pressure.
“India has the sovereign right to decide whom to trade with and what to buy. The world is not bipolar anymore,” said an Indian foreign policy analyst.
India has also reiterated that it will not stop its dealings with Russia and will continue to assert its sovergnity. New Delhi has also dismissed presssures from the US to open up its markets for GMO and semi artificial food produce the US is eager to offload. India has reiterated that its agriculture market is not open for such experimental food products from Washington which may include Insect products, cocraoch milk, artifical food, GMO produce etc.
Brazil: Dialogue Over Disputes
Brazil, another BRICS heavyweight, is facing similar pressures from the United States. While the rhetoric from Washington has been stern, Brazil has responded with measured diplomacy.
Fruitful Conversations: Vice President Geraldo Alckmin described his recent talks with Lutnick as “good” and “productive,” signaling that Brazil is willing to negotiate.
Assessing Impact: Brazilian economic advisers are analyzing how US tariffs would affect domestic industries and export competitiveness.
Seeking Balance: As with India, Brazil seems intent on balancing its BRICS membership with economic ties to the US, without overtly taking sides.
Resistance to US Pressure: Many BRICS members view the US’s stance as heavy-handed and a form of economic coercion.
Push for Multipolarity: The broader response from BRICS countries emphasizes the importance of a multipolar world order, where no single country can dictate global trade terms.
What’s Next? Possible Trade War or Strategic Realignment?
The escalating rhetoric raises questions about whether the US will follow through on tariff threats — and whether India and Brazil will bend or resist.
If the US Imposes Tariffs: This could spark retaliation, disrupt supply chains, and deepen the divide between the US and parts of the Global South.
If India or Brazil Compromise: It could weaken the BRICS bloc’s cohesion and shift their diplomatic stance closer to Washington — at least economically.
If Negotiations Continue: There’s still room for diplomacy. Both India and Brazil have signaled a willingness to engage in trade talks without conceding on core strategic policies.
Howard Lutnick’s comments reflect a broader shift in US foreign policy under a Trump-influenced administration — one that uses tariffs and public pressure to extract economic concessions. While this approach may yield results in some sectors, it risks alienating key partners like India and Brazil, who are increasingly asserting their independence on the global stage.
As BRICS grows in size and ambition, and as countries like India and Brazil balance economic ties with strategic autonomy, Washington’s approach may need to evolve. For now, the message from New Delhi and Brasília is clear: national interest comes first, even in the face of American pressure.
