'Climate Crisis' sceptic Koonin on why disaster-hit nations shouldn't expect western aid| HTLS 2026

At the Hindustan Times Leadership Summit 2026, climate scientist Steven E Koonin questioned the effectiveness of global climate negotiations, arguing that promises of financial assistance from developed countries have not materialised. He said India should prioritise meeting its immediate energy needs as it continues to develop, rather than focus on decarbonisation before it becomes wealthier. Koonin also responded to demands for climate compensation from disaster-hit countries such as Nepal, pointing to deforestation, settlement patterns and the lack of early-warning systems as factors that can worsen disasters. He described large-scale Western climate aid as unlikely, citing financial pressures in the US and Europe.