BRICS wargames: Why they matter, why India opted out
AI Summary
Joint naval exercises, dubbed "Will for Peace 2026," began near South Africa's coast on January 11, 2026, led by China. Warships from China, Russia, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, and South Africa are participating in drills focused on rescue operations and maritime security. The exercises are taking place amid rising global maritime tensions and frayed relations between South Africa and the United States, which views the BRICS economic bloc as a threat. While all BRICS members were invited, India and Brazil opted out of the drills. The exercises are described as a BRICS Plus operation, with Brazil, Egypt, Indonesia, and Ethiopia joining as observers, aimed at ensuring maritime safety and economic activity.
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