Death of Former Russian President Boris Yeltsin

I was saddened to learn of the passing of Boris Yeltsin and I extend my condolences to the Yeltsin family and the Russian people. As Russia’s first democratically elected post-Soviet president, President Yeltsin will be remembered for his significant contribution to ending the Cold War and his efforts to expand political and economic freedom at home and abroad. He ushered in a new era for his country in which ordinary Russians were able to speak and worship without fear, to own property, and to choose their leaders freely. In doing so, he inspired a generation of young Russians to build a bright new future for their country and to choose peaceful relations with their new neighbors. President Yeltsin will also be remembered fondly by the American people for establishing good relations between our nations after many years of conflict.