THE US WILL not send any top officials to the COP30 climate talks in Brazil later this month, as President Donald Trump instead works to boost fossil fuels.

The latest summit will take place at a time of global political turmoil which many fear will overshadow the climate emergency, especially when combined with the rise of climate-sceptics in the likes of the US.

Fewer than 60 world leaders have confirmed their attendance of an Amazonian summit next week ahead of the annual UN climate conference – much smaller than the near 200 leaders who attended the Dubai talks two years ago.

A White House official told AFP on condition of anonymity that the US is not sending any high level representatives to COP30.

“The president is directly engaging with leaders around the world on energy issues, which you can see from the historic trade deals and peace deals that all have a significant focus on energy partnerships,” the spokesperson said.

The COP30 climate conference, being held in the city of Belem from 10 to 21 November, will be preceded by a summit of heads of state and government next week on 6 and 7 November.

Last year, 75 leaders attended COP29 in Azerbaijan, about half the number in Dubai in 2023.

The leaders of Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Norway, Colombia, Chile, Cape Verde and Liberia will attend, their governments have confirmed their attendance.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin is also among the world leaders attending the summit.

China has said Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang will represent President Xi Jinping.

Argentina, also led by climate skeptic government and an ally of the US, have not said if they will send anyone.

With reporting by – © AFP2025