While President Trump’s administration has opted out of global climate action, the European Union’s climate commissioner, Wopke Hoekstra, asserts that this stance is not deterring other nations. In fact, he sees global ambition for environmental protection continuing unabated. Hoekstra expressed his concern regarding the U.S. approach, calling it “problematic” and effectively “checking out” from vital climate efforts.
Meanwhile, major economies worldwide are consistently increasing their commitments to reduce planet-warming greenhouse gas emissions. This global resolve will be under the spotlight at a crucial United Nations climate summit this Wednesday in New York City. There, 118 countries are set to unveil their 2035 emissions reduction targets, a key component of the Paris climate accord.
The timing presents a slight challenge for the European Union, as its own 2035 climate targets are still awaiting finalization by lawmakers. China, a significant global emitter, is also expected to present its targets, which will be keenly observed given its substantial investments in solar, wind, and battery manufacturing, and its strategic shift towards clean energy technologies.
During a recent address to the U.N. General Assembly, Mr. Trump utilized part of his speech to dismiss the severity of climate change, criticize wind power, and lash out at environmental advocates and international partners. As the U.S. has announced its withdrawal from the Paris accord, it will not be participating in this week’s U.N. climate summit or setting its own emissions targets.
Hoekstra defended the EU’s deliberative process for setting new climate targets, framing it as an intrinsic aspect of European democracy. He stated that the European Union has provisionally agreed to cut emissions by 66% to 72% by 2035, relative to 1990 levels, with final approval anticipated before the COP30 international climate talks commence in Brazil this November. “That is what we call democracy,” he affirmed, stressing that such a system, while slower, is “by far the better and the superior” approach to one lacking ambition and democratic legitimacy.
These remarks highlight the complex geopolitical tightrope European leaders walk. They increasingly find themselves at odds with Washington’s policies, yet remain reliant on U.S. cooperation for crucial trade and security matters.
This dynamic also explains Europe’s moves, such as accelerating its ban on Russian liquefied natural gas imports under pressure from the White House – a decision that could benefit American gas suppliers. The EU has pledged to purchase $250 billion in oil and gas from the U.S. annually throughout the remainder of President Trump’s term.
Furthermore, Europe views China with growing caution. Chinese companies currently dominate the clean energy sector, from controlling vital mineral resources to manufacturing cost-effective electric vehicles. European lawmakers have voiced concerns, accusing China of engaging in unfair competitive practices.