They demand exchange

A leader of Colombia's Farc rebel group has ruled out releasing a high-profile sick hostage and cast doubt on a French humanitarian mission sent to treat her.

Rodrigo Granda suggested the Farc had not agreed to grant access to Ingrid Betancourt and would only release hostages through a prisoner exchange. A former presidential candidate who also has French nationality, Ms Betancourt is said to be seriously ill.

Her son earlier said she needed a blood transfusion within hours to stay alive. The French mission was sent to Colombia earlier this week after the government promised to suspend military operations against the Farc in the area where many of its hostages are believed to be held.

And then they will demand from the world …understanding!