US sinks international deal on decarbonising ships

A vote to approve a maritime emissions reduction plan was postponed for a year, a setback for the initiative's supporters. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) originally backed a global pricing system to curb shipping emissions. However, U.S. President Donald Trump opposed the plan, calling it a "scam," and threatened sanctions against supporting countries.

In a tight vote, delegates chose to delay the decision. While some nations, like Saudi Arabia and Russia, opposed the emissions plan, others, including China and the EU, maintained their support. The proposed system would aim to reduce carbon emissions from ships starting in 2028.

With shipping contributing nearly three percent of global emissions, the plan is seen as vital for tackling climate change.