SKOKOV DENIES CONTACTS WITH YELTSIN.

In several interviews, the chairman of the Congress of Russian Communities (and former security council secretary) Yuri Skokov has categorically denied stories that he had recently met with Boris Yeltsin, and that Yeltsin offered to make him of Prime Minister in place of Chernomyrdin. Skokov says no such meetings were held, and no such proposition was made. As to his ally and CRC vice-chairman Aleksandr Lebed, Skokov stressed that Lebed is his partner, and if Lebed does well in the election, it will be their common victory. Skokov said that Lebed has been quick to learn the art of politics, is never afraid to take responsibility, and that his chances in the elections are excellent. (5)

MVD Lists "Criminal Candidates"