It is impossible to separate the Russian invasion of Ukraine from the global energy crisis and the eventual threat to climate change. This act of Russia can give a major setback on achieving net-zero for carbon.

The Russia Ukraine conflict is also bleak economically, but it may serve as a catalyst for decarbonization in Europe. It can force governments to increase their investments in zero-emission renewable energy sources and home and electric vehicles more aggressively. This can eventually help the faster transition to achieve the net-zero goals within the larger Climate Change action plan.

The world leaders met at the Glasgow COP26 summit three months ago and pledged ambitious cuts in fossil fuel consumption. As Russia is the top energy supplier for Europe, the debate about the threat of climate change has eclipsed discussions of the pivotal transition to renewable energy. Oil prices are climbing toward $100 a barrel while Russia is threatening a major confrontation with the West over Ukraine.