The COP29 climate talks concluded with developing countries expressing dissatisfaction over a proposed $300 billion climate finance package by 2035, viewed as inadequate by many, including India’s delegate, Chandni Raina. While rich nations pointed to next year’s anticipated U.S. administration under Donald Trump as a reason for acceptance, the divide between wealthy and poorer nations deepened. Amid criticism of the host country Azerbaijan’s commitment to climate issues, China’s potential rise as a climate leader gained attention as it began to transparently commit to financial support for developing nations.