Somali pirates holding a Ukrainian ship have dropped their ransom demand by $US5 million, but say they will not release the vessel unless it is paid.
The pirates are asking for $US29 million after seizing the Faina and its crew of 21.
One of the pirates, Ali Sigule, has confirmed that the ship, which is carrying military weapons, is under siege but adds that they will not surrender.
The United States navy says one of its destroyers is monitoring the ship to ensure its military cargo, including tanks destined for the Kenyan army, is not unloaded in Somalia.