Somali piracy doubled in 2008, 60 ships attacked, $30 million paid in ransom. Sarkozy fights the pirates. The french announcement was made after the EU defence minister meeting at Deauville France
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Pirate showdown off Somalia
A Russian warship steams toward a confrontation with pirates off Somalia.
The European Union has agreed to establish an anti-piracy security operation off the coast of Somalia.French Defence Minister Herve Morin said at least eight countries have agreed to take part.
The deal follows the seizure of a ship laden with 33 tanks - a $20m (£11m) ransom is wanted for its release.
Meanwhile, authorities in Kenya have charged a maritime official who said that the battle tanks were destined for southern Sudan, rather than Kenya.



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