Assange asylum ruling criticised

17 August 2012 Last updated at 00:17 ET


Julian Assange said Ecuador's decision was a "historic victory"

The UK and Sweden have criticised Ecuador for granting political asylum to Julian Assange as the diplomatic row over what to do with him intensifies.
The Wikileaks founder took refuge at Ecuador's London embassy in June as he faced extradition to Sweden over sexual assault claims, which he denies.
The UK has said it will not allow him safe passage out of the country.
Ecuador's Foreign Minister Ricardo Patino said he hoped talks with the UK would "overcome this".
He told BBC Mundo the UK should respect Ecuador's "sovereign

Chizony