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After a Last-Minute Challenge to New Loss and Damage Deal, U.S. Joins Global Consensus Ahead of COP28

Summary

The article reports on the U.S. decision to join the global consensus on United Nations guidelines for establishing a loss and damage fund, a crucial issue leading into the COP28 climate talks in Dubai. The U.S. initially hesitated during formal U.N. committee negotiations due to concerns about the fund's language, specifically regarding the source of funding. However, after some last-minute uncertainty and a challenge by the U.S. State Department official, the U.S. ultimately accepted the guidelines. The loss and damage fund aims to assist developing countries in coping with severe climate impacts, including irreparable damages, and will be up for approval at COP28, scheduled from November 30 to December 12. The article also highlights the historical context of the U.S.'s ambivalence in climate talks and its reluctance to acknowledge financial responsibilities tied to its greenhouse gas emissions.

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