Gorbachev says hospitalised with pneumonia

Mikhail Gorbachev, the last Soviet leader, told Russian media on Thursday that he is being treated in hospital for pneumonia.

Confirming a radio report about his illness, the 88-year-old told RIA Novosti news agency by phone: "It's true but I'm recovering. The treatment is basically over, now they are keeping me in for a couple of days and that's it."