European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen created controversy by stating that the EU’s climate fight targets the emissions from fossil fuels, rather than the fuels themselves. Made just as the COP30 talks were entering their final, difficult phase, this distinction was seen by critics as a potentially dangerous weakening of the EU’s stance. Climate advocates warned that this position could undermine international efforts to secure a global commitment to phase out oil and gas. Although the Commission later reaffirmed its commitment to the fossil fuel transition, the comment risked damaging the EU’s credibility as a global climate leader.
Nov 21, 2025 euractiv.com