Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva delivered a passionate address at the opening of the COP30 climate conference in Belém, Brazil, urging the world to combat climate denialism and misinformation. Speaking to thousands of delegates gathered in the Amazonian city, President Lula emphasized the need for truth and scientific evidence in the face of ‘fake news and misrepresentation.’ While not explicitly naming former U.S. President Donald Trump, Lula criticized leaders who ‘control the algorithms, sew hatred, and spread fear,’ referencing Trump’s past dismissal of climate change as a ‘con job.’ The conference, held in a politically charged environment, began without the participation of senior U.S. officials, highlighting the ongoing tension between the U.S. and global climate efforts. President Lula unveiled Brazil’s ambitious Tropical Forest Forever Facility (TFFF), aiming to raise $125 billion for global forest protection, though fundraising has faced challenges, including the UK’s last-minute withdrawal of public funding. The conference also grapples with competing interests, such as the Alliance of Small Island States’ (AOSIS) call to prioritize limiting global temperature rise to 1.5°C, a goal the UN now deems increasingly unattainable. UN Climate Chief Simon Stiell warned of the economic consequences of climate inaction, urging nations to move beyond ‘squabbling’ and focus on collective progress.