Donald Trump’s victory in the 2024 U.S. presidential election marks a major political shift and poses a challenge to global climate goals. The Norwegian environmental group Bellona warns that Trump’s re-election will hinder U.S. efforts to combat climate change, particularly the goal of limiting global warming to 1.5°C, a key target of the Paris Agreement. Under Trump, the U.S. is expected to retreat from climate leadership, reversing progress made during the Biden administration.

With the U.S. stepping back, Europe is expected to take a more prominent role in global climate action. The EU’s Green Deal aims for climate neutrality by 2050, and now, the EU will need to lead both in emissions reduction and green tech innovation. This shift could elevate Europe’s strategic influence on energy security and technological development, presenting both a challenge and an opportunity for the EU to emerge as a global climate leader.