The CEC indicates that only three candidates will participate in these propaganda activities: Vladislav Davankov, for New People, Leonid Slutsky, for the Liberal Democratic Party of Russia, and Nikolai Kharitonov, for the Communist Party of Russia.

Current President Vladimir Putin, who will run in the elections as an independent candidate, refused to participate in the debates, a decision described by the CEC as the candidate’s right.

On the other hand, Kremlin spokesman Dmitri Peskov commented that Russian citizens have the opportunity to learn about Putin’s statements on all aspects of life almost daily.

He also recalled that Putin’s agenda, as head of state, is very tight, and that substantially differentiates him from the other candidates.

Russia convened presidential elections for March 17th. Voting in the elections will take place between the 15th and 17th, thus becoming the first presidential elections in Russia that will last three days.

This Sunday, February 25th, also by decision of the CEC, early voting began in Russia in remote and difficult-to-access areas, as well as on ships underway on voting day and in the new Russian regions closer to the front line.

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