In a bold statement shared via Truth Social, former U.S. President Donald Trump warned the BRICS nations – Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, that any attempt to replace the U.S. dollar in international trade would result in severe consequences. He emphasized that the idea of BRICS moving away from the dollar is no longer an option, asserting that any country within the bloc that tries to create a new BRICS currency or support alternatives to the U.S. dollar would face retaliatory tariffs of 100%.

Trump’s remarks come amid growing discussions within the BRICS grouping about de-dollarization and exploring alternatives to the U.S. dollar in global trade. However, Trump made it clear that the U.S. would not stand by idly while these nations pursue alternatives. He firmly stated that the U.S. dollar remains the dominant global currency, and any country that attempts to replace it would face harsh economic penalties, including massive tariffs, signaling a hardline stance against any perceived threat to the dollar’s supremacy in the international financial system.

This warning underscores the geopolitical and economic importance of the U.S. dollar, which continues to play a central role in global trade, finance, and reserve currencies. The statement also serves as a reminder of the U.S.’s significant leverage over global economic policies and its willingness to use tariffs as a tool to protect its financial interests.

Ethiopia’s recent membership in BRICS signals its alignment with the group’s vision of de-dollarization, aiming to reduce reliance on the U.S. dollar in global trade. This offers Ethiopia the opportunity to strengthen economic ties with emerging markets, diversifying its trade and investment partners. However, Ethiopia is also carefully navigating its position within BRICS, as any move to challenge the U.S. dollar’s dominance could provoke retaliatory actions, such as tariffs, from the U.S., as emphasized by Trump’s warning. Balancing these competing interests is crucial for Ethiopia’s economic strategy moving forward.

In summary, Trump’s message to the BRICS nations highlights the ongoing tension surrounding the role of the U.S. dollar in global trade and the potential consequences for countries that attempt to challenge its dominance. His warning indicates that the U.S. remains committed to maintaining the dollar’s preeminent position in the world economy.