New York, July 8 (NationPress) President Donald Trump has issued a warning regarding a potential ten percent tariff on nations linked to BRICS, expressing concerns that the coalition is attempting to undermine U.S. interests, as stated by his spokesperson, Karoline Leavitt.

When questioned on Monday about the specific policies Trump was referring to in his tariff threat posted on Truth Social, Leavitt remarked, “The President believes, in general, that BRICS is trying to undermine the interests of the United States.”

Trump shared on social media late Sunday, “Any country aligning themselves with the anti-American policies of BRICS will incur an additional 10 percent tariff.”

He did not elaborate on which policies he deemed “anti-American.”

This threat coincided with BRICS leaders' joint declaration expressing serious concerns about the increasing prevalence of unilateral tariff and non-tariff measures that disrupt trade and do not align with WTO [World Trade Organization] regulations.

The statement did not specify the U.S. but also criticized the European Union and other Western nations for engaging in “protectionism under the guise of environmental objectives,” which Trump has also opposed.

Another critique aimed at Washington included condemnation of military actions against Iran, again without naming the U.S.

Previously, Trump had cautioned BRICS against the idea of creating a currency to replace the dollar for international trade.

However, this currency proposal was dismissed by India, with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stating there was no intention to replace the dollar as the reserve currency, as it “is the source of international economic stability.”

When asked if he was threatening action against BRICS due to its increasing strength, Leavitt responded, “He does not view these countries as becoming stronger. He simply believes they are trying to undermine U.S. interests, which is unacceptable to him, regardless of a country's strength or weakness.”

The letter sent to South Africa regarding higher tariffs did not mention any specific penalty for being a BRICS member, indicating that a 30 percent tariff would be implemented starting August 1 unless an agreement is reached.

For BRICS partner Malaysia, Trump announced a 25 percent tariff starting August 1, without referencing the proposed BRICS penalty.

Alongside Japan and Korea, which are also subject to 25 percent tariffs, Leavitt indicated that 12 additional countries would receive tariff letters on Monday.

India was not included among the five countries whose letters were posted on Truth Social by Monday afternoon, but seven more were expected to follow.

Negotiations are ongoing with all these nations, and these letters effectively extend Wednesday's deadline for a final agreement to August 1.

“This delay is again in the best interest of the American people,” Leavitt stated.

“I can assure you that the President is in constant communication with world leaders who are eager for a deal, and this administration is diligently working to ensure that these agreements benefit the American populace,” she added.