"Yeltsin laid the foundation for the Russia Putin built", by Felix RieferDeutsche Welle"

“Let's not talk about Communism. Communism was just an idea, just pie in the sky.”

“Your commanders have ordered you to storm the White House and to arrest me. But I as the elected President of Russia give you the order to turn your tanks and not to fight against your own people.”

“A sense of proportion and humanitarian action are not issues for terrorists. Their aim is that of killing and destroying.”

“In quotes: Reactions to Yeltsin death”

“I cannot shift the blame for Chechnya, for the sorrow of numerous mothers and fathers. I made the decision, therefore I am responsible.”

“We don't appreciate what we have until it's gone. Freedom is like that. It's like air. When you have it, you don't notice it.”