As a brutal winter storm sweeps across the U.S., Washington made headlines this week by officially withdrawing from the Paris Agreement—marking the second time former President Donald Trump has exited the global climate pact. The move, effective January 27, 2026, scraps U.S. commitments to reduce emissions, reigniting debates about America’s role in fighting climate change. 🌨️⚡
Why the Repeat Exit?
Trump’s decision echoes his 2017 withdrawal during his first term. Experts point to two key factors: climate skepticism and oil industry influence. Professor Wang Can of Tsinghua University notes Trump’s dismissal of climate science as a 'hoax' clashes with global consensus, while fossil fuel groups—who reportedly donated $75 million to his 2024 campaign—pushed for deregulation to boost profits. 🛢️💸
Global Consequences
The Paris Agreement, signed by nearly 200 countries in 2015, aims to limit global warming to 1.5°C. UN Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq told CGTN the U.S. exit undermines collective action: 'All nations must uphold climate commitments.' Meanwhile, analysts like Diao Daming argue the U.S. is increasingly prioritizing self-interest over global cooperation, risking progress on emissions targets. 🌡️🤝
What’s Next?
With the U.S. sidelined, pressure mounts on other major economies to fill the leadership gap. But as winter storms and heatwaves intensify globally, the clock is ticking—and the world can’t afford delays. ❄️⏳
