By Kizito CUDJOE
The withdrawal of the United States from the Paris Climate Agreement under the Trump administration has drawn widespread reactions from global leaders, environmental experts, and activists, raising concerns over the future of international climate cooperation.
The decision, framed by the White House as part of its “Make America Affordable and Energy Dominant Again” strategy, has sparked sharp criticism and renewed calls for multilateral action.
Following his investiture, as the 47th President of the U.S., President Trump subsequently signed executive orders signalling their withdrawal from the climate accord.
The following is a summary of viewpoints that oppose the decision.
The European Climate Foundation’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Laurence Tubiana, said, “The U.S. withdrawing from the Paris Agreement is unfortunate, but multilateral climate action has proven resilient and is stronger than any single country’s politics.
“The impacts of the climate crisis are worsening, as seen in the wildfires in Los Angeles. Each fraction of a degree of warming avoided means less suffering and more secure futures. Responding to their citizens, U.S. cities and states are taking bold actions, and America is All In accounts for 63% of the population and 74 percent of GDP.”
New York Governor, Kathy Hochul, and New Mexico Governor, Michelle Lujan Grisham, co-chairs of the U.S. Climate Alliance stated “We, as co-chairs of the U.S. Climate Alliance, a bipartisan coalition of two dozen governors, will continue America’s work to achieve the goals of the Paris Agreement. Our states and territories retain broad authority under the U.S. Constitution to advance the climate solutions we need.”
Former White House National Climate Advisor, Gina McCarthy: “If the Trump administration wants America to lead the global economy, it must grow our clean energy industry. By leaving the Paris Agreement, this administration is abdicating its responsibility to protect the American people and our national security. Our states, cities, businesses, and local institutions stand ready to continue the shift to a clean energy economy despite federal complacency.”
Visiting Scientist at the Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) and West African Science Service Centre for Climate Change and Adapted Land Use (WASCAL), Prof. Benjamin Lamptey, noted that if the United States withdraws in 2025, it could have significant implications for Africa. This withdrawal may negatively impact global commitments and potentially slow the pace of climate action worldwide.
He mentioned that the loss of support for adaptation and mitigation projects could increase vulnerability to climate change and slow down the transition to renewable energy. This situation might lead to a rise in Chinese influence in Africa, as well as an increase in climate migration.
The Executive Director, Society of Native Nations, Frankie Orona: “As Indigenous Peoples, we have long been stewards of the land. It is disheartening to see the administration prioritize corporate greed over the well-being of our communities and environment. LNG export projects threaten our sacred lands and broader ecosystems, compromising health and sustainability.”
Policy Director, Union of Concerned Scientists, Dr. Rachel Cleetus: “Withdrawing from the Paris Agreement is a travesty. This move defies scientific realities and undermines the global action needed to address worsening climate impacts. It is an abdication of responsibility and jeopardizes progress at a critical time.”
President, Oxfam America, Abby Maxman: “Another U.S. withdrawal from the Paris Agreement is reckless and a betrayal of communities facing catastrophic storms and rising seas. Ignoring climate-driven damage harms lives and livelihoods both domestically and globally. The U.S. should lead the fight for a livable planet, not retreat from it.”
Executive Director, Strategic Perspectives, Linda Kalcher: “The Trump administration’s potential withdrawal could create turbulent geopolitical times. EU leaders must uphold democratic standards and multilateralism, forging alliances to advance the global energy transition.”
Pan-African Political Strategist, Greenpeace Africa, Fred Njehu: “Trump’s attempt to sabotage global efforts on climate is a threat to our future. Africa, already facing severe climate impacts, will continue to act despite this setback.”
Climate Scientist, Imperial College London, Dr. Joyce Kimutai: “Bold steps are required by every nation. Vulnerable communities bear the heaviest burdens, and the cost of inaction far outweighs the cost of action. Africa stands ready to be part of the solution.”
UN Climate Change Executive Secretary, Simon Stiell: “The global clean energy boom is worth $2 trillion annually. Ignoring it sends vast wealth to competitor economies while climate disasters worsen. The door remains open to the Paris Agreement, and constructive engagement is welcome.”
The Paris Agreement, adopted in 2015, aims to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius, with efforts to cap it at 1.5 degrees.
The U.S. initially withdrew from the accord in 2017 but rejoined in 2021 under President Joe Biden.
The Trump administration’s potential move to exit again shows the fragility of global climate commitments and the critical need for sustained multilateral cooperation.
