December 31, 1999

The Making of a President … some historical moments.

Yeltsin hands over power to Vladimir Putin – symbolized by the golden chain of office,

Two Speeches

Boris Yeltsin resigns from his position as President of the Russian Federation on December 31, 1999, paving the way for his interim successor, Vladimir Putin. (Historical press review)

Jelzins Abtrittsrede 31.12.1999
Farewell Speech – I want to apologize to you.
Putins Neujahrsansprache 1999/2000
Putin’s First New Year’s Speech

Review by the BBC

The day Boris Yeltsin said goodbye to Russia - BBC News
The day Boris Yeltsin said goodbye to Russia