Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel urged top politicians to come together to address the urgent issue of global warming, which she described as one of the most significant threats facing the world. Merkel emphasized the need for immediate action, stating that climate change affects everyone and cannot be ignored. She compared the challenge of climate change to a future war, stressing the importance of coordinated efforts by nations worldwide. In attendance were Russian President Vladimir Putin, US Defense Secretary Robert Gates, and US Senator for Arizona John McCain. Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel has emphasized the importance of addressing climate change during Germany's dual EU and G8 presidencies, urging nations to decrease greenhouse gas emissions, conserve energy, and transition to renewable fuels. Merkel has also expressed intentions to work towards a new agreement to reduce greenhouse gases once the Kyoto Protocol expires in 2012. Germany's coalition of left and right parties is divided on various energy policies, leading the government to oppose certain EU efforts to reduce emissions.