Trump to World: Green Energy Is a Scam and Climate Science Is From ‘Stupid People’

Trump to World: Green Energy Is a Scam and Climate Science Is From ‘Stupid People’

United Nations Headquarters, New York - - September 12, 2025 - - In a fiery address to the United Nations General Assembly, President Donald Trump dismissed global climate concerns and denounced renewable energy initiatives as “a scam” perpetuated by “stupid people.” The remarks, delivered before world leaders and diplomats, underscored his administration’s hardline rejection of mainstream climate science while taking aim at both foreign allies and environmental advocates.

A Defiant Tone on Climate & Energy

Trump, speaking to a packed hall, said that renewable energy projects such as wind and solar “weaken nations” and “destroy economies,” singling out wind turbines as “ugly, noisy, and useless.” He further claimed that global climate science is “cooked up by stupid people who want to control your lives,” drawing murmurs from delegates across the room.

The president argued that fossil fuels remain “the backbone of prosperity” and pledged that the United States would “never surrender its energy dominance to phony green schemes.”

Targeting Allies & Environmentalists

Trump’s sharp rhetoric extended to European nations, which he accused of “crippling themselves with bad energy policies,” and to environmental organizations that he described as “corrupt profiteers.” He warned that the U.S. would reconsider trade and security ties with countries that, in his view, “fall for the green energy hoax.”

Global Reaction in the Chamber

The speech drew a mixed reception. Some delegations, including those from major oil-producing states, applauded Trump’s remarks. Others, particularly European Union representatives, sat in stony silence. UN Secretary-General António Guterres did not directly address the comments but later reiterated the UN’s stance that climate change is an “existential threat” requiring urgent global cooperation.

Domestic Implications

Trump’s remarks are consistent with his administration’s rollback of environmental regulations, withdrawal from international climate accords, and efforts to expand fossil fuel production. Supporters argue his stance strengthens American energy independence and shields workers in traditional energy sectors. Critics counter that dismissing climate risks endangers global stability and undermines U.S. leadership on pressing scientific and environmental issues.

A Centrist View

From a centrist perspective, the speech highlights the tension between economic pragmatism and environmental responsibility. On one hand, fossil fuels remain integral to global energy markets, and abrupt transitions can strain economies and workers. On the other, dismissing climate science outright risks alienating allies, slowing innovation, and ignoring mounting evidence of severe weather linked to climate change.

For many moderates, the key challenge lies in balancing energy security with long-term sustainability, fostering policies that both protect jobs and address environmental realities without resorting to extremes.