Trump shifts US funds from shutting down foreign fossil fuels to expanding them

The Trump administration is discontinuing US support for projects aimed at transitioning from coal, oil, and gas to clean energy in regions spanning from Africa to Southeast Asia. Instead of promoting clean energy, the administration is advocating for the use of American taxpayers’ money to bolster fossil fuels that contribute to global warming.

Since taking office, President Donald Trump has terminated energy transition agreements with South Africa, Indonesia, and Vietnam. Efforts are also being made to cease US support for the African Development Bank (AfDB) and multilateral Climate Investment Funds. This shift in policy is concerning environmental activists who fear that promoting coal, oil, and gas in developing countries will exacerbate climate change and hinder economic progress.

The US has withdrawn from the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) agreements with coal-dependent countries like South Africa, Indonesia, and Vietnam. This decision has led to the cancellation of millions of dollars in grants and loans that were intended to facilitate the transition to clean energy in these countries. The move has been criticized by other wealthy nations involved in the partnerships.

Furthermore, the US is disrupting funding for projects in South Africa aimed at repurposing coal-fired power plants and investing in renewable energy sources. The administration’s push for fossil fuels abroad is in stark contrast to the global trend of phasing out coal financing. Despite facing criticism, the US government is adamant about supporting coal projects and pressuring international financial institutions to follow suit.