Trump Ends Birthright Citizenship, Targets BRICS Economies

Why in the news?

U.S. President Trump signed an order ending birthright citizenship, potentially affecting thousands of Indian professionals, and announced 100% tariffs on BRICS nations for exploring non-dollar transactions, sparking legal challenges and economic concerns globally.

Trump Ends Birthright Citizenship, Targets BRICS Economies

Trump’s Executive Order and Birthright Citizenship

  • S. President Donald Trump signed an Executive Order ending birthright citizenship, which could impact thousands of Indian professionals on temporary visas like H-1B, hoping to raise families in the U.S.
  • The move faces opposition from 18 Democratic-led States, the District of Columbia, and San Francisco, who filed a lawsuit in federal court, arguing it violates the S. Constitution.

Trump’s Tariff Threat to BRICS Nations

  • President Trump announced plans to impose a 100% tariff on BRICS nations attempting to transition to non-dollar transactions.
  • BRICS, a grouping of emerging economies, includes India, Brazil, Russia, China, and South Africa, although Mr. Trump mistakenly mentioned Spain as a member.
  • This tariff announcement raised concerns in global markets, with a notable impact on Indian stocks.

Economic and Diplomatic Impact on India

  • The BSE Sensex plunged 1,235 points, and the NSE Nifty fell 320 points, marking their lowest levels in seven months. Midcap and smallcap indices dropped by 3%.
  • External Affairs Minister Jaishankar scheduled a meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to discuss key bilateral issues, including immigration policies, tariff concerns, and Trump’s proposed visit to India.
  • The meeting will coincide with the Quad Foreign Ministers’ dialogue, focusing on the Indo-Pacific region and enhancing strategic partnerships among India, Australia, Japan, and the U.S.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times