COP28 Struggles with Fossil Fuel Phase-Out Amid OPEC Opposition

Some countries, including Saudi Arabia and Russia, are resisting the inclusion of a pledge to phase out fossil fuels in the COP28 climate deal, instead pushing for a focus on reducing climate pollution without mentioning the fossil fuels causing it. This pushback comes after OPEC sent a letter urging its members and oil-producing allies to reject any mention of fossil fuels in the final summit deal. On the other side, at least 80 countries, including the United States and the European Union, are demanding a clear call for an eventual end to fossil fuel use. The negotiations are at a critical stage, with government ministers trying to resolve the impasse, but concerns are growing that the talks are getting bogged down by disputes.