COP31 Talks Stall as Producers Resist Fossil Fuel Phase-Out

Fossil fuel producers and consumers at the COP31 climate talks in Antalya, Turkey, are resisting a deal with firm new targets or a shift away from oil, gas, and coal, observers said Friday, challenging host Turkey and lead negotiator Australia. Major producers like Saudi Arabia and Russia oppose constraining fossil fuels, while India and other developing economies resist measures they say could limit development. The United States skipped the talks for a second year under President Donald Trump, who has called global warming a hoax. Turkey is proposing a global electrification plan without requiring renewable sources, though Brazil advocates for clearer transition mapping. The EU backs the goal, while India and the G77 reject firm targets. Australia will draft a political text early next week.