Anadolu staff
26 March 2025•Update: 27 March 2025
BERLIN
Germany’s acting Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Wednesday sharply criticized the Trump administration for “denying and ignoring” the facts about climate change, ignoring how it is one of the most serious threats to humankind.
Speaking at an international climate conference in Berlin, Scholz underlined the significance of the 2016 Paris Agreement, lauding the landmark treaty as humanity's collective commitment to securing a safer future for subsequent generations.
“I very much regret that the US wants to leave the agreement. But one thing is clear: Denying and ignoring the facts does not make the consequences of climate change disappear, nor does the responsibility of the US as historically the largest emitter of greenhouse gases,” Scholz said.
He emphasized that climate change represents one of today's gravest security challenges, with far-reaching economic, social, and political consequences if the global community fails to limit global warming and substantially reduce global greenhouse gas emissions.
“Some people claim climate protection is of secondary importance in times like these – as if it were a luxury for calmer days. But those who say these are mistaken,” Scholz said, pointing out how recent intelligence services' reports also confirm the gravity of this threat.
“The risk of forest fires, floods and widespread crop failures is increasing worldwide, along with hunger and epidemics. These lead to political instability, displacement, and conflicts to control the resources. There is no doubt that we can only secure a peaceful world by limiting climate change,” he added.
Scholz, Germany’s chancellor since 2021, is now serving at the post until a new government is formed in the wake of the country’s general elections this February.
