Turkey has applied to join the BRICS economic group of nations, reflecting President Erdogan's dissatisfaction with the West and desire to strengthen ties with non-Western powers like Russia and China. The move is seen as a strategy to enhance relations with emerging economies at a time when US hegemony is waning. Turkey's application puts it at odds with the rest of the NATO family, as it has consistently pursued foreign policy goals that diverge from the West. Erdogan's purchase of Russia's S-400 air-defense missile system has enhanced Russia's influence in the Middle East and disrupted NATO operations. Turkey's application to join BRICS will be discussed at a summit in Russia in October.