Death of Former Russian President Boris Yeltsin
Statement by Secretary Condoleezza Rice
Death of Former Russian President Boris Yeltsin
Washington, DC
April 23, 2007
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. 2007/316
Released on April 23, 2007
ENDS