**Thailand Joins BRICS as New Partner State**
Thailand has accepted Russia’s invitation to join the BRICS economic alliance, according to Thai Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Nikondet Phalangkun. This move makes Thailand a partner state of the group, which includes countries like Russia, China, India, Brazil, and others.
**Benefits for Thailand**
Membership in BRICS is expected to benefit Thailand across various sectors, including trade, investment, food, and energy security. The country’s government believes that joining the alliance will bring economic benefits and strengthen its position on the global stage.
**BRICS Expansion**
Thailand joins four other new member countries – Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates – who became part of BRICS earlier this year. This marks the group’s first expansion since 2010 when South Africa joined.
**Global Developments**
Meanwhile, Russia continues to face challenges in Ukraine. Russian forces have increased attacks in Kherson Oblast, and a surface-to-air missile caused a plane crash near Aktau, Kazakhstan. Ukraine has also reported significant losses for North Korean troops deployed in Russia’s Kursk Oblast.
**International Reaction**
A YouGov poll shows a decline in public support for Ukraine across several European countries. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk criticized Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban for praising Russian President Vladimir Putin during Christmas Day missile attacks on Ukraine.
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