Communist boss abandons presidential dream?

Russia's Communists are denying rumours that party leader Gennady Zyuganov is planning to quit the presidential race. However, a spokesman said he did not rule out the possibility that Zyuganov wouldn't run.

The statement comes after a Russian newspaper published unconfirmed reports quoting a few party members.

According to the party spokesman, such a decision could be taken if presidential candidates are not given equal access to the mass media, or if the United Russia party continues using regional governors and city mayors for campaigning.