

Was Yeltsin good for Russia?









As Russia's President Boris Yeltsin resigns, will he be remembered as the man to bring democracy to Russia or as an unpredictable leader who failed to fulfil his promises? Yeltsin has presided over eight turbulent and often chaotic years of social and political transformation. Yeltsin has presided over eight turbulent and often chaotic years of social and political transformation. Did Yeltsin leave Russia a better place? What does the future now hold for the Russian people? He was the 1st president for a new nation of Russia. There is no one that can change that. He will go down in history only as that. During his time in power - he had done a lot of good for the country but there is always a sacrifice that has to come along with it. He left in a very honourable way and of course, would be the only leader that openly admitted his crimes during his time in office by giving himself a pardon before leaving. How can you not call that man smart - Who leaves you with no doubt but yet untouchable till the end.

Anil, Hong Kong Had Gorbachov remained in power there is a good chance that Russia would have become a social democracy along the lines of the Scandinavian countries. Instead, Yelstin, with the full support of the West, and especially the US, has turned Russia into an unbridled capitalist society ruled by gangsters. No, Yelstin has not been good for Russia.

Graham Howard, Brit living in US



He definitely played a major part preventing Russia from disintegrating further

Fawad, Pakistani/USA

Fawad, Pakistani/USA I think that Yeltsin was probably a good courageous man but not necessarily a brilliant leader. Credit should definitely be given where it is due. For instance, he definitely played a major part preventing Russia from disintegrating further. He also had to perform a balancing act throughout the post cold war period. Since Russia was in an economic mess, he required western aid on conditions such as liberalising the economy and introducing capitalism. While doing this, he had to be careful not to be depicted as though he was compromising Russian sovereignty because this would've given a chance to communists or other ultra-nationalists such as Zhirinovsky to exploit the situation. Thus indeed he walked a tightrope. On the other hand, one of his major short comings have been embroiling Russia in the disastrous Chechen war which cost Russia in morale, funds, reputation, and international influence. The mistake is being made again supposedly to have access to Caspian Sea oil reserves. Boris is a thief, comedian, person with no moral codes, murderer, liar and pure redneck. Directly, he did not do anything bad or good. And Russia is finished!

Alexander Shtik, Ukraine Yeltsin resigns, world stock prices rise. Need I say more.

Sue, UK/USA He was too mercurial and somewhat arbitrary in his reform plans. Things would have turned out a bit better had he pursued a more aggressive reform policy, dealt harshly with the mafia and and profiteering.

Jim Shepherd, USA Yeltsin was a very complex person. His determination to rid Russia of Communism was what drove him - through hell and back (heart attacks and more). Of course, like all men, he had failings. He knows them full well, as we all do. But I think his legacy is that he brought Russia out of Communism and crushed the USSR. But now he can retire quietly as he wishes - not because of immunities or anything (which, by the way, his "family" did not get - thus the erroneous news reports) - but because he feels Communism is as dead as the embalmed guy still sitting in Red Square. Yeltsin's place is now in the history books.

Mel Huang, Estonia



Yeltsin did not make Russia a democracy and did not resolve the cold war - Gorbachev did.

Name Here

Eugene, Russia/ USA Yeltsin was by far worst, most corrupt leader in Russia in the past century. Russians might have had stupid leaders, cruel leaders and even evil leaders, but all of the above did actually care for Russia, as opposed to his personal well-being and wealth. Yeltsin did not make Russia a democratic country - Gorbachev did. Yeltsin did not resolve the cold war, Gorbachev did it. All Yeltsin did is impoverish the country, brought people to the brink of starvation and let thousands die in local conflicts. I think Boris Yeltsin was a political genius and a hero. It will take some time before this becomes the prevailing opinion but I am confident time will bear out my judgement. Right now, it's too soon to be making any judgements.

John Anderson, Canada Yeltsin was the worst Russian President ever to rule Russia. He was unable to eradicate political and financial problems which paved the way for widespread political unrest and corruption. He endorsed the use of excessive force in solving basic conflicts. He was unable to understand the meaning of freedom and democracy because if he did Russia and Chechnya wouldn't be at war today. There is one place in this world where tyrants and corrupt leaders escape prosecution. That place is Russia.

Mike Ramsey, USA Yeltsin was a good man that tried to make positive changes in Russia. But, you try dismantling or working with a bureaucracy that is so entrenched and you would be drinking lots of Vodka too. You try working with people who have done so well working around the system that working within the system is a new concept. It will take a generation or two to see positive changes. Too many of the old are out there and positive changes in Russia will take time.

Russ Black, USA As an observer I saw Mr Yeltsin as nothing but a puppet for the greedy hopes of Capitalism and corporatisation. I hope the people of Russia will examine the package marked "democracy" and make sure that's their desire.

Paidraigin Ni Docartaig, USA The ideology of Yeltsin for democracy and freedom are indeed a very precious legacy. About the way he ignored the Russian peoples proud soul and basically kneeled down to the USA on most important matters...well that was not a good thing. Bad for Russia and very bad for the world in general. Furthermore, I often had the feeling he did not really have the physical stamina and discipline to be a world leader. Was he really in command all these years?

Vivien Cooksley, Cyprus Boris Yeltsin was a funny bloke and good for world peace. But in the end power went to his head, though I think Putin will be bad for world stability. All in all Yeltsin will be missed all over the world, despite his unpredictability.

Steve Howard, Australia You may complain about our cosmetic democracy - you will be right! But in fact Yeltsin is the best of leaders Russia ever had and Russia now is the country which we never had before! I DO hope we are not going to come back to the USSR! If you say that he is BAD that only means that you are absolutely NOT familiar with our history!

Dmitry, Russia As a President of a socially and economically bankrupt country, dependent on Western handouts, Yeltsin should have behaved in a more rational and sober manner. He was politically arrogant and short sighted. He could have brought various Russian nations together with political compassion and comradeship. His biggest political blunder was to challenge the brave Chechen people, which brought his downfall. In my opinion, he did more harm to the Russian Federation than good.

Shahid Parvez, USA Without Yeltsin: It could have been worse for Russia; But it could have been much better as well. He made one brave move, many mediocre ones, and a few totally incompetent decisions.

Murat Erkocevic, USA I think Yeltsin was a key piece in the new Russia. He stopped the return to communism and tried keeping the pride of the Russian people.

Blanco, Spain Yeltsin will be remembered well. He had the courage to lead, and the determination to act for change. His was a very difficult task, and he has had the honesty and humility to say that what he hoped would be easy has in fact turned out to be very hard indeed. Which of us would have done better?

Alastair Ross, Scotland Yeltsin was an unstable individual. His rule was marked by unprecedented rise of corruption in Russia and decline in its military and scientific capabilities. Hopefully Mr Putin will reverse these trends.

J. Cosax, USA Yeltsin was instrumental in toppling the coup that nearly dragged Russia back to its dark days. We must applaud him for that. His shortcomings were a fondness for power, which he clung to at all costs and for his erratic policies over the last few years of his leadership. Now Vladimir Putin is poised to take the reins of a demoralised, corrupt Russia, a strong man with strong convictions and belief in what Russia and the Russian people can achieve is most certainly going to be good for us all. The times ahead will be exciting for everyone who believed in working democracy and capitalism in Russia.

Sean Carr, USA/ UK Even though he took some decisions that raised eyebrows of other western nations, Yeltsin was indeed good for Russia. He brought his country out of the "mess" of early 90's and when he retired, he gave Putin a better Russia. A Russia, Russians would like to present to the USA and the rest of the world; democratic, defiant and moving on. Whether other nations like it or not!

Shardool Vyas, USA Yeltsin made many mistakes - may God be his judge for those. But he showed manly bravery as he resigned with dignity. Not so many modern world leaders can pass that test. I think that he has done at least one good thing for the nation - he showed respect, apologising for wrongdoings and wishing well to all. Again, not a common pattern.

Andrei Tolstiakov, U.A.E./Russian Boris Yeltsin served a purpose during a time of political and economic transition. During that time his diplomatic approach helped ease long standing tensions between Russia and much of the rest of the world, in ways that Gorbachev could not do. The challenges for Putin are now are terrorism, corruption and political upheavals that cannot be dealt with purely in diplomatic terms. It is impossible to negotiate with terrorists. Boris Yeltsin will be remembered in history and should enjoy his retirement.

Bob Ezergailis, Canada Yeltsin was good for Russia. Although there are many people who are glad to seem him go, - I think the rest of the world appreciated the energy he put into the job to make things go right in Russia. However, history will never raise his accomplishments above Mikhail Gorbachev. The greatest leader from Europe in the 20th Century. A master at diplomacy, economics, and the art of 'pragmatic' government. Gorbachev will go down in history as truly great.

Dave Adams, USA



Boris Yeltsin was the best Russian president the West ever had

Ken Bhandary, USA

Ken Bhandary, USA Boris Yeltsin was the best Russian president the West ever had. When he assumed power, Soviet Union was a major force in the world with 15 Republics; a sixth of the world's land mass, ample resources and enough food and clothing for everyone. Any major action to be taken in the world required that it be consulted. Today, despite its nuclear arsenal and ample natural resources, Russia has been reduced to a pauper state with diminishing influence. Instead of making the small necessary adjustments, Yeltsin got rid of the entire system and tried too many changes too soon and Russia has suffered as a consequence. The best thing that Yeltsin did for Russia was to quit and pass the leadership on to a much more capable leader, Vladimir Putin. In fact, I suspect Putin might have strongly suggested Yeltsin leave office. I suspect that Putin may not be as enamoured with the west as we would like, but Russia needs a strong leader like him to pull them out of the hole that Yeltsin left them in.

Chris Hollett, UK Boris Yeltsin I feel was good enough for Russia at the critical time in Russian history, the period of transition from the socialism to market economy he ruled. Yeltsin is tenacious and committed to democratisation and the market economy. Transition periods are never easy especially in a vast and diverse country (empire) such as Russia.

Osuagwu, Kuwait Boris Yeltsin was nothing more than a puppet to prove that Western Democracy would not work in a country that has had socialism and communism so imbedded into the psyche of its people. Now they have a former top KGB official as the President? Come on, we might as well say that the Cold War is on.

Leanne, USA Why is Yeltsin being praised? Gorbachev was instrumental in dismantling the old regime. Yeltsin sought to undermine this with his own agenda, which no one else seemed to understand. The Russian population is no better off than previously. Gorbachev sought change for democratic reasons. Yeltsin had no such ambition. The legacy is a violent, corrupt and black market economy. Hardly what could be described as democratic.

Ian Duffy, UK Yeltsin was never a saint but when you are trying to control a country the size of Russia there are times when you have to use an element of force. I would much rather have Yeltsin in control than Putin. Imagine the response of Putin to the NATO offensive on Serbia. . .

Pete Williams, UK Yeltsin brought democracy to his country. We like to say he was corrupt - but isn't that what modern democracies are like?

S. Emer, USA Yeltsin will forever leave the image of an alcoholic pompous leader demanding the respect reserved for superpowers while simultaneously begging for money. He has split the nation, divided special interests and helped play a role in distributing private property rights from the public arena to a small division of criminal elements.

Alex, USA He can be applauded for bringing some sort of democracy to Russia, but should be scolded for not putting enough reforms in place.

Morgan, USA Yeltsin was instrumental to the gradual and systematic pauperisation of the erstwhile, self-sufficient Russian populace. My verdict: Yeltsin was a bad omen to Russia!

Mohamed Sleman, France The only people to have benefited under Yeltsin are the richest 1% who cream off all of Russia's wealth. For most ordinary working Russians, things were far better under socialism, where public services were provided for all.

Peter Benjamin, England Constantly ill, erratic political judgement, ill conceived military interventions, and badly advised; he was nonetheless a pivotal figure in Russian history. His only major mistake was that he stayed far too long.

Mark M. Newdick, USA/UK Was Boris Yeltsin good for Russia? The answer seems to be a very positive 'yes'! As to what he accomplished and how well it served the Russian People, - it is too early to say. Yeltsin took the reigns of the government when things were in a turmoil. And, he leaves with the country slightly stronger, with more of a sense of direction, and with the satisfaction that he did have an impact on the future of Russia as a great industrial power. There are many obstacles ahead for the Russians as all of the West; but, we can see that Boris Yeltsin was a man who served his country well under very difficult circumstances.

Dave Adams, USA He was Tsar Boris, the well-tailored Democrat. Well tailored to the needs and plans of the West. They gave him a budget for his suits so he would look the part. He was, as are most politicians, an opportunist. I do wish the Russian people, and all peoples in that part of the world, well. They have suffered enough. In retrospect I would like to thank them all for their sacrifice during World War II. If it were not for their 20 million, I do not think I would have the freedom to write this. But it is all God's, in the end. A happier next millennium to all the unsung heroes and heroines who stand their ground and simply get on with it.

Michele Waering, UK



Without Yeltsin the Soviet Union and its evil ideology might still exist

Mikko Toivonen, Finland

Mikko Toivonen, Finland Without Yeltsin the Soviet Union and its evil ideology might still exist. Having led Russia out of that deserves him a place amongst the biggest heroes of this century. No Kremlin leader since Stalin has presided over as much bloodshed in Russia. The Chechen war of 1994-1996 cost the lives of about 30,000 innocent civilians. The great "democrat" leaves power with the blood of tens of thousands on his hands.

Bruno Fischer, South African in Russia I think that Boris Yelstin has only done one good thing for Russia, that is he gave the Russian people a lot more freedom than they ever expected to have. But he is also responsible for dethroning Russia from the world's most powerful military nation to a country full of corruption, crime, and misery. If Mr Yeltsin had not followed the so fake American democratic way, the country would have still been a militarily powerful, and crime free state. He could have still maintained the old Soviet system (but without communism) That is why I think Mr Putin is the ideal leader for Russia! He is a young man with Soviet type experience and mentality. He has been with the K.G.B he has seen everything! He is the only man that I think that can bring Russia back respect as a superpower and can also bring the country economic power and reduce crime and terrorism like he is showing by crushing the rebellion in Chechenya.

Bogdan Mrakic, Australia He will never become Russia's Tudjman, but, no doubt, we will remember this great man with an uncrushable character decades and centuries after his retirement. His contribution to democracy and free market in Russia and to European and world integration will be felt in decades to come, while his blunders and sins will be forgotten. As it happened with Franklin Delano Roosevelent--the results of his work are long-term.

Andrej, Russia Yes, overall he was a good figure for Russia. He has made many mistakes and had many shortcomings but looking at a bigger picture he was the right man to lead the country from communism. As time goes by his poor health and clownish tricks will fade away leaving the core of what Yeltsin has done, namely -- democracy, civil freedoms, better relation with outside world, market economy and unified and stable Russia.

Dmitri, New Zealand Boris is in ill health and a drunk. Russia with the right leadership could be a nice place with many more assets. It is good that he has finally stepped down, and hopefully someone will commandfully take the helm and steer this ship into port.

Curtis Peters, UK Evidently, Yeltsin was the face of Gorbachev's Perestroika, yet I feel that there was quite a lot of political manoeuvring, behind the scenes. However bad Yeltsin was, I intellectualise that Putin is belligerent, and thereby far worse for the World, without Russia.

Peter Crawford-Bolton, UK in US Yelstin's name in the West is associated with the development of Russia's present kleptocratic state. However he is a man of great achievements. He kept Russia from completely disintegrating at a critical time in her history. We must also remember that Yelstin's first governments were formed around a cadre of Harvard-trained "radical reformers" who put forth an aggressive program of converting state-planned production with "open markets".

Today no one denies that this approach has been a failure. Russian personal income (in real terms) is less than 40 percent of what it was in the last years of the USSR. And, to make matters worse, this income is distributed more unevenly now than it was then. The gap between rich and poor has become enormous. Half of Russian income goes to the top 5% of the population. The other half is shared by the remaining 95%.

Michael Moore, USA You cannot level criticism at Yeltsin for the current economic and environmental condition of the former USSR, for the very reason that in the transition from Communism to capitalism, such issues are inevitable.

Conversely, I don't feel that you can praise a man for choosing the only option left open to him. Whilst the nation has undergone fundamental changes to its very fabric, I feel that Yeltsin was simply in the man in the chair at the time.

Chris, United Kingdom Former President Yeltsin may not have possessed the attributes of a great leader, but he stayed in the middle of the road, as a father figure and helped to guard against extremism, at a vulnerable time in Russia's history.

Hopefully Mr Putin will continue to walk this middle path bringing youth and vision to a country with complex problems. The Russian people need peace, democracy and stability, after many years of turbulence.

Pat van der Veer, (Canada) but British I think Yeltsin was a puppet of his own desires, the guilty in this case was the Russian people who at least they have to pay the bill. What is behind of the anarchy in Russia? Who knows?

David Manriquez, USA Yeltsin was a drunk who allowed corruption and inept bureaucracy stifle the Russian recovery. But he was a Politician wasn't he? Poli is Latin for many, tics are a blood sucking parasite.

Collin, Canada The West's undermining of Mr. Gorbachev, who gave it all it wanted, over 22 dead in Lithuania, and its unconditional support for Mr. Yeltsin despite 80,000 dead in Chechnya in 1994 ("a crime against humanity" -- The Economist), will no doubt occupy future historians as one of the tragic errors that planted the seeds of a violent 21st century.

Leilani Akwai, USA Yeltsin is a very controversial figure in Russian history. I will leave the discussion about unpredictable nature of his personality to others and will try to summarise Russia's achievements and failures under his presidency.

(1) Stable democratic political system has been established from Moscow. It continues to evolve in most of our diverse regions across the nation. Human freedoms are still sometimes violated by state but it is just a matter of several more years for regular Russian citizens to learn how to defend themselves in a new democratic environment.

(2) For most of the country, free market economy proved to be devastating without presence of solid investments (capital). Although there is a number of major exceptions like Moscow itself and several other regions.

(3) After a decade of confusion and fragmentation, Russian society is united around ideas of protecting itself from further economical and political decline. This is a sign of new maturity, a threshold from which Russia will build up.

Yevgeni, Russia Yeltsin is going to be remembered as an unpredictable leader who dissolved the USSR before Russia could be held accountable for the environmental and biological legacy of the Soviet Union's nuclear arms race. He gave most of the former Soviet Socialist states their independence, but never did anything in the way of helping these people clean up decades of radioactive waste, taking down and rebuilding faulty nuclear reactors and power-generating facilities. He will also be remembered as the unpredictable and unhealthy leader who originally sought power only to better his own place in life. There were bread lines before, but there was bread for even the pensioners, who are currently going hungry on meagre farms with bad soil (and we all know "Russia's Breadbasket" was the Ukraine, no longer part of Russia). Mr Yeltsin did not advance the Russian people so much as he further stratified an already classist society of governmental haves and working class have-nots. He has done just as much damage to the culture and economy of the Russian people and those around them, as the Bolsheviks and later on Joseph Stalin and the Cold War did when Kruschev was rushing to build up a nuclear arsenal. Russia has been a nation of extremes, and Yeltsin's reign has been no exception to this rule.

Sara, USA A great hope for Russian democracy proved to be an inept comedian

Massing Andreas, Germany He left behind a rotten legacy just as the other Russian leaders did. And now his "pet" Putin will take his place. His resignation is just a scam to raise public opinion of Putin.

Jurgen Zeitzer, Germany No, but Russia was good for Yeltsin. Oh and he's immune from any prosecutions! Hey you cant get a better deal than that can you now?

Zafar Nadeem, UK Yelstin's name will be synomynous with democracy in former Soviet Union. He may be not a very brilliant man as a leader but I will always remember him as a man who had the courage to stand on tanks and face the military for the Russian democracy, his courage was that is democratic Russia now. I Salute the ol' man of Russia who showed that people power can work wonders with the country. I am not his fan, but as a fello human being, he was one of the great figures of the 20th century.

Nitin, India/USA Send us your comments:

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