YUKOS chief steps down

'The current situation today forces me step away from further personal involvement in the development of YUKOS-Sibneft, said a statement by YUKOSchief Mikhail Khodorkovsky, which was received by Rosbalt. 'As a director I must do the best thing for my employees considering the attack directed against me and my partners,' said Khodorkovsky.

The statement also says that 'the unprecedented success of the oil company YUKOS has no comparison in the history of Russian and international business' and 'we created the most effective company in the country.'

Khodorkovsky's statement goes on to mention his future personal plans connected with the continuation of work as the chairman of the regional social organization Open Russia. 'Its philanthropy is directed at supporting education and bringing up youth, supporting civil initiatives directed at creating an open and democratic society in Russia,' reads the statement.