While our Senate was assured, and asserted, that such a unilateral statement would have no bearing on U.S. defenses, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and the Duma formally affirmed it as part of Moscow's ratification proceedings.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: Obama's 'Anti-missilephobia'

"As a result we have no alternative but to accept his unilateral decision to rescind his contract, " the statement added.

BBC: Chelsea set to seal Robinho deal

Labour former minister Denis MacShane criticised the "wholly unilateral" move, announced by Commons Leader Sir George Young in a written ministerial statement earlier.

BBC: Change to Queen's Speech timing 'is power grab'