The COP30 climate talks held in Belem, Brazil, concluded with a weak agreement that notably omitted any mention of fossil fuels. Attendees faced extreme weather, including heat and flooding, which underscored the urgency of climate action. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva had framed the conference as an opportunity for decisive action, yet the final draft failed to deliver. While nearly 80 countries pushed for a clear plan to phase out fossil fuels, resistance from oil-producing nations like Saudi Arabia hindered progress. The absence of a U.S. delegation marked a significant shift in participation, reflecting a broader reluctance to confront fossil fuel dependency. The agreement acknowledged the need for a transition to low-emission development but lacked specificity, raising doubts about the commitment to meaningful climate action.