Russia ‘has brilliant command of mood’ at UN – Ukrainian envoy

As the COP30 climate talks begin in Belém, Brazil, attention is drawn to the women leading the charge against climate change. This is crucial because the impacts of climate change disproportionately affect women and children, with the UN warning that by 2050, up to 158 million more women and girls could be pushed into poverty. Activist Camille Étienne, often called the 'French Greta Thunberg', is among those making waves in this vital fight, highlighting the urgent need for gender-inclusive solutions in climate action.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has indicated that talks between Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump could occur in Budapest soon, pending the resolution of a couple of issues between Moscow and Washington. This meeting is significant as it could pave the way for improved relations between the two nations, which have been strained in recent years. The potential dialogue highlights Hungary's role as a mediator in international diplomacy.

In a troubling development, a Moscow-backed court has sentenced two Colombian fighters, Alexander Ante and Jose Aron Medina Aranda, to 13 years in prison for their involvement in the conflict in Ukraine. This case highlights the increasing international implications of the war and raises concerns about the treatment of foreign fighters. It serves as a stark reminder of the geopolitical tensions at play and the potential consequences for individuals caught in the crossfire.

The UN's decision to lift sanctions on the Syrian president marks a significant shift in international relations, as highlighted by US ambassador to the UN Mike Waltz. He described this move as a 'strong political signal' indicating that Syria is entering a 'new era.' This change could pave the way for improved diplomatic ties and stability in the region, making it an important development for both Syria and global politics.

The UN Security Council has lifted sanctions on Syria's president and Interior Minister Anas Khattab, marking a significant shift in international relations. This decision is seen as a step towards stabilizing the region and fostering dialogue, which could lead to improved humanitarian conditions in Syria. The move reflects a growing recognition of the need for engagement rather than isolation, potentially paving the way for future diplomatic efforts.

Rafael Mariano Grossi, the head of the IAEA, recently spoke with FRANCE 24 about critical global issues, including Iran's nuclear capabilities and the ongoing situation in Ukraine. He emphasized that Iran possesses enough highly enriched uranium and expertise to potentially develop nuclear weapons, despite recent attacks on its facilities. Grossi also shared his aspirations for a leadership role at the UN, highlighting the importance of diplomacy in addressing these pressing challenges. His insights are crucial as they shed light on the delicate balance of international relations and the need for effective dialogue.

At the opening session of the Cop30 summit in Brazil, UN Secretary General António Guterres emphasized that the failure to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius is not just an environmental issue but a moral failure. He called for a 'paradigm shift' in how the world approaches climate change, highlighting the urgent need for action to prevent irreversible damage. This message is crucial as it underscores the dire consequences of inaction and the ethical responsibility of nations to protect the planet for future generations.

The UN has warned that 2025 is projected to be one of the three hottest years on record, highlighting a critical failure to curb rising global temperatures. UN chief Antonio Guterres emphasized that this situation represents a moral failure, underscoring the urgent need for global action to combat climate change. This news matters because it reflects the ongoing climate crisis and the pressing need for governments and individuals to take responsibility for their environmental impact.