Boris Yeltsin

Boris Yeltsin (1931–2022) – First president of Russia

• Actions:
  • Advocated for a stronger Russia within the Soviet Union, contributing to its collapse.
  • Thwarted the hardliner coup in 1991.
  • Negotiated the post-Soviet transition and the independence of former republics alongside leaders like Leonid Kravchuk.
  • Appointed Vladimir Putin as his successor.
• Significance:
  • Facilitated the peaceful separation of the Soviet Union, enabling Ukraine to pursue statehood.
  • Oversaw initial post-Soviet relations, including conflicts and the signing of treaties of friendship with neighboring states.
• Successor and Legacy:
  • Succeeded by Vladimir Putin.

This is part of the #Significantpersons series.