Diplomats warn of US sabotage of climate talks

Although the United States will not officially send senior representatives to the COP30 climate summit in Brazil, European diplomats are concerned that the administration of US President Donald Trump may nevertheless influence the course of the negotiations - indirectly or through side events.

In addition, the US is keeping the door open for a later entry into the negotiations. Concerns also stem from the recent US intervention at the International Maritime Organisation, where Washington has used threats to get measures postponed.

Diplomats are therefore considering forming a united front, but threats of tariffs or visa restrictions may deter states.

While the US is backing away from climate commitments, China is strengthening its influence and openly supporting a multilateral approach.

The COP30 negotiations will be complex - addressing a wide range of topics from climate finance to extreme weather. But experts warn that attempts by the US to disrupt the summit could end up isolating it.

(reuters, swag)