Core Viewpoint - President Putin clarified that Russia is not actively pursuing a "de-dollarization" policy but is compelled to use its own currency due to restrictions on dollar transactions [3][5]. Group 1: Putin's Statements - Putin emphasized that Russia has not initiated any anti-dollar movement and is merely responding to the inability to use the dollar in international payments [3]. - He addressed Trump's accusations regarding BRICS nations' de-dollarization efforts, stating that such policies are only relevant to the member countries and do not target third parties [3]. - Putin's remarks suggest a desire to avoid direct confrontation with Trump, especially given the context of ongoing U.S. sanctions against Russia [3][5]. Group 2: Trump's Threats - Following Trump's election, he threatened to impose 100% tariffs on BRICS nations if they continued to pursue de-dollarization and sought to introduce a new currency to replace the dollar [4]. - In July, during the BRICS summit, Brazilian President Lula called for alternatives to the dollar, prompting Trump to threaten a 10% tariff on any country supporting anti-American policies [4]. - Trump later announced a 50% tariff on Brazil, asserting that the BRICS nations were undermining the dollar's dominance and that he would protect the dollar's status as the global reserve currency [4]. Group 3: Russia's Economic Context - Despite a significant portion of trade with China being conducted in rubles, Russia faces challenges in using its currency for transactions with other countries, such as India, where the rupee has limited international circulation [5]. - The use of the yuan is also complicated, as most yuan received by Russia is used for imports from China, limiting its utility [5]. - Russia's economic situation necessitates a resolution to sanctions and a restoration of financial transactions with the U.S., which Putin has been seeking through cautious diplomatic signals [7][9].