Boris Yeltsin

First Russian Federation president

Contemporary influential 161 sayings

Sayings by Boris Yeltsin

The West should not teach us how to live. We know ourselves.

1990s — Remarks to a Western delegation
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I sometimes make mistakes, but I always learn from them.

1990s — Interview with a Russian journalist
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The greatest enemy of Russia is not outside, but inside. It is bureaucracy.

1990 — Speech to the Russian Congress of People's Deputies
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I am not afraid of anything. I am not afraid of anyone.

1990s — Remarks during a crisis
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We must move forward. We cannot afford to stand still.

1992 — Speech to the Russian Parliament
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I am a man of the people. I came from the people. And I will always serve the people.

1996 — Speech during a campaign rally
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The greatest victory is to overcome oneself.

1990s — Interview with a Russian journalist
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I believe in Russia. I believe in its future.

1999 — New Year's Eve address
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The transition to democracy is not easy. It is a painful process.

1992 — Remarks at a press conference
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I am not a saint. I am a sinful man.

1990s — Interview with a Russian newspaper
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The main thing is to keep moving forward. No matter what.

1990s — Remarks to aides
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I am a fighter by nature. I will never give up.

1990s — Interview with a Russian journalist
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The collapse of the Soviet Union was a tragedy. But it was also a liberation.

2000s — Interview with a Western journalist
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We must build a new Russia. A democratic, free, and prosperous Russia.

1999 — New Year's Eve address
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I have always been on the side of the people. And I will always be.

1996 — Speech during a campaign rally
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The main thing is to believe in oneself. And in one's country.

1990s — Interview with a Russian journalist
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I am not a man of compromise. I am a man of principle.

1993 — Remarks during a political confrontation
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I am not a dictator. I am a president. And I will respect the constitution.

1993 — Remarks during a political crisis
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The greatest challenge is to overcome poverty and corruption.

1999 — New Year's Eve address
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I was born in a village. I am a simple man. But I have a strong will.

1990s — Interview with a Russian journalist
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