In a significant and controversial move, the United States has officially withdrawn from the Paris climate agreement for the second time, further entrenching Donald Trump’s stance against international climate cooperation. This withdrawal makes the US the only nation to have completely exited the landmark accord, joining Iran, Libya, and Yemen as the only countries not participating in the agreement aimed at combating global warming.
A Pivotal Shift in Climate Policy
This latest withdrawal, announced following Trump’s return to the White House last year, reinforces his “America First” policy, which prioritises national interests over global commitments. The Paris agreement was designed to unite countries in the effort to limit global temperature increases to well below 2°C, ideally aiming for a maximum rise of 1.5°C compared to pre-industrial levels. This critical framework seeks to mitigate the severe impacts of climate change that threaten millions worldwide.
The timing of this withdrawal is alarming, as the US is among the largest greenhouse gas emitters globally. Environmental groups and human rights advocates have expressed their outrage, warning that this decision sets a troubling precedent for global climate action.
Global Backlash Against the Decision
Marta Schaaf, Amnesty International’s Programme Director for Climate, condemned the US’s exit from the agreement, stating, “The US withdrawal from the Paris Agreement sets a disturbing precedent that seeks to instigate a race to the bottom.” She emphasised that as a leading superpower, the US’s actions could undermine over a decade’s worth of progress in global climate cooperation, potentially harming both current and future generations.
California’s Governor Gavin Newsom, a vocal critic of Trump, responded emphatically, noting that while climate disasters continue to cost Americans trillions, the administration’s retreat from international climate commitments is a sign of weakness. “California won’t retreat. We’ll keep working with our partners around the world to cut pollution, create jobs, and lead the clean energy economy that the Trump administration is too weak to fight for,” he declared.
US Withdrawal Complicates Global Climate Goals
Despite Trump’s withdrawal, the momentum towards renewable energy is undeniable, with renewables accounting for over 90 per cent of new power generation capacity in 2025. However, the leadership in the renewable sector has shifted to China, complicating the US’s role in the global effort to limit temperature rises to safe levels. This withdrawal could hinder international cooperation and progress, making it more difficult for nations to meet the ambitious targets set forth in the Paris agreement.
Additionally, earlier this month, the US announced its exit from the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), further distancing itself from key international efforts to tackle climate challenges. This withdrawal from crucial global institutions raises concerns about the collective ability to address climate change, particularly for nations most vulnerable to its effects.
Why it Matters
The implications of the US’s withdrawal from the Paris climate agreement resonate far beyond its borders. As a major global player, the US’s exit sends a distressing signal to other nations, potentially emboldening them to retreat from their climate commitments as well. This decision jeopardises the fragile progress made in international climate negotiations, threatening to exacerbate the impacts of climate change worldwide. With the clock ticking on climate action, the need for unified global efforts has never been more urgent.
