US rejects world calls to join Russia in ratifying Kyoto pact

"We have no intention of signing or ratifying it. We have not changed our views," a defiant deputy State Department spokesman Adam Ereli said after the European Union and environmentalists across the globe hailed Moscow's decision and urged Washington to follow suit.

Heading the chorus of delight after the Russian cabinet approved the Kyoto pact and sent it to lawmakers for ratification was the EU, which has been battling to save the accord thrown into disarray by the US walkout.

"This is a huge success for the international fight against climate change," declared European Commission President Romano Prodi. "Today Russian President Vladimir Putin has sent a strong signal of his commitment and sense of responsibility."

"We are happy that the Russian Duma has decided to ratify. We hope that the United States will now re-consider its position."

But the State Department left no room for hope.

"We note the actions taken today," said Ereli, "but I'd refer you to the Russians for opinion or comment on their rationale for ratifying it. Our position against it remains the same."

EU Environment Commissioner Margot Wallstroem said Russia's action "sends a very forceful signal to the rest of the world... It is also very much a victory for the European Union."

German Foreign Minister Joschka Fischer, a Green party member, said, "For the first time there can be global responsibility for the world's climate and the management of its resources."