G20 Summit Faces Climate Finance Stalemate

The G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro is a crucial moment for global climate discussions, coinciding with the COP29 climate talks in Azerbaijan, which have stalled over climate finance for developing countries. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for leadership from G20 countries, which are responsible for 80% of global emissions, to lead by example and help break the deadlock in COP29 negotiations. The return of Donald Trump to the White House poses potential challenges to international climate agreements, as he may retract U.S. commitments to the Paris Agreement. Meanwhile, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva aims to use the summit to highlight climate issues and advocate for the Global South. Security is heightened in Rio following a recent thwarted attack on Brazil's Supreme Court. As the G20 leaders meet, they are under pressure to provide a clear signal of commitment to climate finance, which is critical to achieving a breakthrough in ongoing negotiations.