Split over surge in energy prices overshadows EU climate strategy

Viktor Orban claims bloc's approach is utopian fantasy' that will increase prices and destroy the middle class'

European Union leaders have exposed their differences over how to tackle a surge in energy prices, as Hungary's prime minister, Viktor Orban, dismissed some of the bloc's plans to confront the climate emergency as utopian fantasy".

Ahead of crucial UN climate talks in Glasgow, EU leaders plan to issue a declaration saying it is essential to keep the 1.5C global warming limit within reach" and calling on all countries to come forward with, and implement, ambitious national targets and policies," according to a leaked draft of the summit communique.