Russia Includes Occupied Ukrainian Territories in Greenhouse Gas Report, Sparking Protests

Baku, Azerbaijan, Nov 23, 2024 – Russia has included the territories it occupies in Ukraine in its latest greenhouse gas inventory report to the United Nations, a move that has drawn sharp protests from Ukrainian officials and activists. The report was presented at the COP29 climate summit this week, where the controversial inclusion has sparked a diplomatic uproar.

Ukrainian representatives and environmental groups have condemned the action, viewing it as an attempt to legitimize Russia’s occupation of Ukrainian land through international climate commitments. The timing of the report also coincides with reports that Russian President Vladimir Putin is preparing for potential peace negotiations with incoming U.S. President Donald Trump, which could have major implications for the future of the disputed regions.

This move by Russia raises further concerns about the broader geopolitical context of the conflict and its impact on climate and environmental issues. The inclusion of occupied territories in official reports complicates the situation as international discussions on climate change continue.