Why Did Yeltsin Resign

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The Answer is Boris Yeltsin, the first President of the Russian Federation, announced his resignation on December 31, 1999. His decision to step down from the presidency was influenced by several factors:

1. Health Issues: Yeltsin had a history of health problems, including heart disease, which had led to several hospital stays during his time in office. His physical condition had been visibly deteriorating, and there were concerns about his ability to continue performing the demanding duties of the presidency.

2. Unpopularity and Political Struggles: By the late 1990s, Yeltsin's popularity had plummeted due to the economic turmoil that Russia faced during the transition from a planned to a market economy. The country experienced a severe financial crisis in 1998, which led to a devaluation of the ruble and a default on domestic debt. His administration was also marred by allegations of corruption, and he faced strong opposition from the communist-dominated parliament.

3. Succession Planning: Yeltsin's resignation was seen as a strategic move to ensure a smooth transition of power to his chosen successor, Vladimir Putin. By resigning before the end of his term, Yeltsin gave Putin the advantage of incumbency as acting president during the presidential elections scheduled for March 2000. Putin, who had been serving as Prime Minister, was seen as a younger and more energetic leader who could bring stability to Russia.

4. Legacy Concerns: Yeltsin was concerned about his legacy and the future of the reforms he had initiated. By stepping down early and handpicking his successor, he hoped to influence the direction of the country and protect his family and allies from potential legal actions.

In his resignation speech, Yeltsin asked for forgiveness from the Russian people for the mistakes he had made and expressed hope that Russia would continue on the path of democratic and economic reforms. His resignation marked the end of a tumultuous era in Russian politics and the beginning of Vladimir Putin's long tenure in power.

Why Did Yeltsin Resign

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