U.S. Energy Minister Finds: 'Climate Cult' Burdens Europe's Economy - U.S. Energy Chief Slams Europe's Climate Policies as Economic Threat

U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright has criticised Europe's climate change policies, claiming they are damaging the continent's economy. His remarks come as tensions rise between the U.S. and Europe over environmental regulations and energy strategies. Wright also downplayed concerns about rising CO₂ emissions, calling them a minor consequence of modern life.

Speaking recently, Wright argued that Europe's focus on climate action has pushed up energy costs and weakened industrial output. He described the effects of higher CO₂ levels as creating a world that is only 'slightly warmer, slightly greener, and slightly wetter.'

Since Donald Trump's return to the presidency in January 2025, the U.S. has taken a harder line on climate policy. One of the administration's first moves was to pull out of the Paris Climate Agreement, a global pact aimed at keeping temperature rises below 2°C. This withdrawal has reduced international commitments to cutting emissions and cut funding for climate programmes.

The shift has also strained relations between the U.S. and Europe. Disputes have flared over new trade tariffs on green technologies, while cooperation on climate projects has slowed. The two sides now find themselves at odds over how to balance economic growth with environmental goals.

Wright's comments highlight the growing divide between U.S. and European approaches to climate change policy. With the U.S. stepping back from global agreements, Europe faces pressure to maintain its environmental targets while managing economic challenges. The withdrawal from the Paris Accord marks a clear break from previous international efforts to limit global warming.