**BRICS Summit Condemns Attacks on Russian Railways, Calls for Negotiated Peace**
A joint declaration from the BRICS summit in Rio de Janeiro has condemned recent attacks on Russia’s railway infrastructure. The document, released on July 6, expresses strong condemnation of the deliberate targeting of civilians in the Bryansk, Kursk, and Voronezh regions of Russia.
These three oblasts are located near Ukraine’s northeastern border and have played a crucial role in Russia’s war effort, serving as key logistical hubs for missile and drone attacks on Ukrainian cities. The attacks have resulted in the deaths of several civilians, including children. The BRICS leaders strongly condemn these acts, calling them “deliberate targeting of civilians.”
The declaration also calls for a negotiated peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine. It recalls the national positions of BRICS members concerning the conflict in Ukraine, as expressed in various international forums, including the UN Security Council and the UN General Assembly. The statement expects that current efforts will lead to a sustainable peace settlement.
This comes just days after a phone call between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin on July 3. In this conversation, Putin stated that Russia would continue to pursue its goals in the war against Ukraine.
The BRICS declaration also criticizes recent U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities as violations of international law. It further condemns the presence of foreign forces in Syria and Gaza, calling for Israeli withdrawal from Syrian territory.
**Background and Analysis**
The BRICS summit is an annual gathering of leaders from Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Iran, Egypt, the UAE, Ethiopia, and Indonesia. The declaration reflects a broader trend of international frustration with ongoing conflicts, particularly in Ukraine and the Middle East.
By condemning attacks on Russian railways without urging Russia to cease war efforts in Ukraine, the BRICS leaders seem to be taking a nuanced approach to the conflict. This stance may be intended to maintain diplomatic relationships with both Russia and Ukraine, rather than explicitly backing one side over the other.
The declaration’s mention of U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities highlights the growing tensions between major world powers. The BRICS statement emphasizes the importance of respecting international law and avoiding military interventions that can exacerbate conflicts.
Brazil, as a member of the ICC and a signatory to the Rome Statute, has an obligation to arrest Russian President Vladimir Putin if he enters the country. This is due to the ICC’s warrant for his arrest over the illegal deportation of Ukrainian children during Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
The BRICS summit statement demonstrates that global leaders are grappling with complex international conflicts and their humanitarian consequences. The declaration underscores the need for diplomatic solutions, peace agreements, and respect for international law in resolving these crises.
**Key Takeaways**
* BRICS leaders condemned recent attacks on Russian railways, emphasizing civilian safety.
* The declaration calls for a negotiated peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine.
* It criticizes U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities as violations of international law.
* The statement condemns the presence of foreign forces in Syria and Gaza, calling for Israeli withdrawal from Syrian territory.
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