Russia Ratifies Kyoto, World Community Calls on the U.S. to Take Lead on Global Warming Treaty

In response to this momentous landmark, John Passacantando, Executive Director of Greenpeace USA, released the following statement:

“The decision by the Russian government to ratify the Kyoto Protocol, the international global warming treaty, is a crucial move in addressing the problem and should be applauded. Now the pressure lies on the United States, the world's largest emitter of global warming pollution, to rejoin the international community.

“Once again, however, the Bush administration has isolated the United States, taking the advice of its corporate cronies, such as ExxonMobil, while ignoring our allies and the world's top scientists. While today's moves open the door for the world to finally confront the global warming issue, without the commitment of the United States the reality of global warming will continue to get worse. We must take action to avoid stronger hurricanes, prolonged droughts and the threat posed to coastal cities by the rising sea level.

“Across the United States, local state and municipal governments are breaking with the Bush administration and attempting to reduce global warming pollution. It is time for the federal government to join this effort and restore the U.S. as the leader the world community looks to for answers.”

Note to Editors: Greenpeace today is releasing records, acquired through the Freedom of Information Act, documenting six meetings in 2001 between the Bush Administration and key corporate interests discussing opposition to the Kyoto protocol, including ExxonMobil and the Global Climate Coalition.