US, Russian Warships Close In On Somali Pirates

A Russian frigate and six US warships have closed in on the hijacked Ukrainian ship carrying a controversial arms shipment destined for Kenya. Sources say the US and Russian warships are within shooting distance of the MV Faina, but the pirates have stuck to their $20 million ransom demand. Speaking from the ship via satellite phone, pirate spokesman Sugule Ali said they were ready to fight to death if attacked. The ship is carrying 33 battle tanks and other weaponry ostensibly belonging to Kenya’s military although they are rumoured to belong to South Sudan, which is under an arms embargo.  Last week, the interim Somali government allowed the US and Russia to intervene and wrench the Faina from the pirates.[PE]