President Donald Trump's decision to pull the United States out of the landmark Paris climate change agreement has drawn strong criticism both at home and abroad, with world and local leaders pledging their support for the accord regardless of Washington's withdrawal.
Trump announced on Thursday that he would abandon the agreement, saying it was his solemn duty to protect "America and its citizens". He said the US would "withdraw from the Paris climate accord, but begin negotiations to re-enter the Paris accord or a new transaction on terms that are fair to the United States".
According to the rules of the 2016 Paris deal, stepping out of its provisions will be a lengthy process that could take up to four years.
The US will join only Nicaragua and Syria as the countries to have not signed onto the agreement - Nicaragua declined to sign the deal in the first place, saying it was too weak.
TVNL Comment: This is what happens when you have an ignorant, self absorbed maniac in charge. Wake up, America. 2018 can make the difference.