Virility [sic]

All lads together...

Putin's 'rape joke' played down

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.