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.