U.S. President Donald Trump has announced that the United States will withdraw from the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), along with dozens of other international agreements and organisations, marking a significant shift in U.S. foreign and environmental policy.
The White House said the decision follows a comprehensive State Department review ordered earlier this year under Executive Order 14199. The memorandum applies to a total of 66 entities, including 35 non-United Nations organisations and 31 United Nations bodies, which the administration described as “wasteful” or misaligned with U.S. national interests.
According to the administration, withdrawal from United Nations entities will involve ceasing U.S. participation or funding to the extent permitted by law. Officials said the move is intended to reduce financial commitments abroad and refocus U.S. resources on domestic priorities.
The UNFCCC forms the foundation of global climate cooperation and underpins major international agreements aimed at addressing climate change. U.S. withdrawal from the framework is expected to deepen Washington’s isolation on climate policy, drawing criticism from environmental groups and international partners who argue the move undermines collective efforts to address global warming.
Trump has long criticised international climate agreements, arguing they place unfair economic burdens on the United States while benefiting other countries. His administration has repeatedly questioned the effectiveness of multilateral institutions and pushed for a more unilateral approach to foreign policy.
Supporters of the decision say it reflects a commitment to sovereignty and fiscal responsibility, while critics warn it could weaken U.S. influence on global issues and damage relationships with key allies.
The United Nations has not yet issued an official response to the announcement. Analysts say the withdrawals could have long-term implications for U.S. engagement in global governance and international cooperation.
