A Russian astronaut on the International Space Station complains he's been banned from using the US toilet and exercise bike.

Gennady Padalka, 50, told Russia's Novaya Gazeta newspaper the lack of sharing was lowering the crew's morale. The veteran cosmonaut said the problem was due to the ISS becoming a more commercial operation.

He said Russian and US cosmonauts had worked in perfect harmony for many years but the problem began in 2003 when Moscow started billing Washington for sending its astronauts into space. "What is going on has an adverse effect on our work," said Mr Padalka, 50, a veteran of two space missions who is to be the station's next commander.

Before he lifted off to join the ISS crew on Thursday, Mr Padalka had asked whether he could use a US gym to stay fit. "They told me: 'Yes, you can.' Then they said no. Then they hold consultations and they approve it again. And now, right before the flight, it turns out again that the answer is negative."

The regulations now required US and Russian cosmonauts to eat their own rations, he said, adding: "They also recommend us to only use national toilets." But Mr Padalka said: "Cosmonauts are above the ongoing squabble, no matter what officials decide. It's politicians and bureaucrats who can't reach agreement, not us."

I wonder if they've merged with Ryanair?

That's nothing! You should see what he did to the gym...

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