UN Climate Talks Collapse Over Fossil Fuel Divide

UN climate talks faced a near collapse Friday as negotiators released a final text that removed all mentions of fossil fuel phase-out roadmaps. This crucial omission highlighted the deep division between developed nations and developing countries over who should shoulder the responsibility for emissions cuts and the pace of transitioning away from fossil fuels. The draft agreement surfaced after marathon negotiations and even survived a fire.

Nearly 200 nations were split, with China, India, and Russia rejecting a prescriptive fossil fuel roadmap, citing historical responsibility of developed nations. Conversely, around 30 countries, led by Colombia, stated they could not accept a deal without such a roadmap, emphasizing the urgency of the climate crisis. EU and French officials expressed strong disappointment, deeming the situation unacceptable and facing a potential no-deal outcome.

Despite the impasse on fossil fuels, the package included progress on climate finance, establishing a work program for financial resources from developed to developing nations. It also addressed trade, with a compromise on unilateral measures like carbon border taxes. The talks also launched an initiative to accelerate implementation of climate goals, a key demand from vulnerable nations.