COP29 approves $300 billion climate finance plan despite criticism and tensions

At the COP29 climate summit in Baku, a $300 billion climate finance plan was approved to assist developing nations over the next decade. The deal was reached despite significant criticism, with many recipients calling it insufficient. The negotiations faced challenges due to geopolitical tensions and the potential return of climate skeptic Donald Trump as U.S. president. His possible withdrawal from the Paris Agreement raised concerns about U.S. leadership in climate efforts. Wealthy nations struggled to increase financial commitments, leading to frustration among vulnerable countries. Protests during the talks highlighted the growing distrust in the climate negotiation process, complicating future discussions at COP30 in Brazil.