The Russian authorities have distanced themselves from the affair of the Russian tanker which is accused of carrying illegal oil from Iraq.

After initially insisting the oil came from Iran, they now say it's a matter for the tanker's owner.

The ship was detained by the American navy in the Gulf last week and has been taken to the Omani port of Muscat.

The Americans say tests show it was carrying Iraqi oil in violation of the United Nations embargo, but they say there's no evidence the Russian government has sanctioned illegal oil sales.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service