The Russian frigate Neustrashimy has been sent to the Horn of Africa [AFP]From The BBC:
Pirates who seized a Ukrainian ship off the coast of Somalia have reportedly demanded a ransom of $35m (£19m) to release the vessel and its crew.
The pirates earlier warned against any attempt to rescue the crew or cargo of the MV Faina, which is carrying 33 battle tanks destined for Kenya.
Pirates have seized dozens of ships near Somalia's coast in recent months.
A Russian Navy vessel is heading to the region and the US says it is monitoring developments in the area.
A spokesman for the pirates, who gave his name as Jalal Jama Ali, told a Somali website that the group were prepared to negotiate with the Kenyan government, but would not release the vessel unless the ransom was paid.
Read more ....
More News on Piracy Off The Coast Of Somalia
Purported spokesman says pirates want US$35m -- International Herald Tribune
Somali pirates demand $35 million ransom for ship -- Reuters
'Somalia rebels' in control of ship -- Al Jazeera
Somalia Pirates Capture Tanks and Global Notice -- New York Times
Somali pirates release Japanese ship -- Reuters
My Comment: Crime pays.