Putin's 'rape joke' played down
BBC News Link
BBC News Link
Russia's President Vladimir Putin has been overheard joking about the virility of his Israeli counterpart, who is accused of multiple rape.
A Russian journalist said Mr Putin joked that President Moshe Katsav was a "mighty man", adding "we all envy him".
Mr Katsav is facing allegations that he raped members of his staff. He strongly denies the claims.
A Kremlin spokesman admitted Mr Putin made a joke, but said it was not meant to be overheard.
Mr Putin's comment was made at the end of a press conference held by Mr Putin and Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert in Moscow, which focused mainly on the Iran crisis.
A Russian journalist said Mr Putin joked that President Moshe Katsav was a "mighty man", adding "we all envy him".
Mr Katsav is facing allegations that he raped members of his staff. He strongly denies the claims.
A Kremlin spokesman admitted Mr Putin made a joke, but said it was not meant to be overheard.
Mr Putin's comment was made at the end of a press conference held by Mr Putin and Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert in Moscow, which focused mainly on the Iran crisis.