The COP30 climate-change conference is about to start in Brazil. Notably, the United States, which ranks as the world's second-largest emitter of CO2, will not be sending its senior government officials.
The absence of top US leaders at COP30 might lead to increased influence from China during the negotiations.
"The US, the world's second-biggest CO2 emitter, has no plan to send top officials, possibly giving China greater influence in the talks."
With the US stepping back from high-level participation, the dynamics of the conference could shift significantly.
The COP30 conference begins amid a notable US government absence, potentially altering the balance of climate diplomacy in favor of China.