| Recent history (since 1991). The modern history of Russia since 1991 has been a time of large—scale changes, crises, reforms and restructuring of the country's international position. Here are the main events of this period: |
On December 25, 1991, the USSR officially ceased to exist, and Russia became an independent state. Boris Yeltsin became President of the Russian Federation. The country has begun the transition from a planned to a market economy, as well as reforms in the political system.
Russia has implemented radical economic reforms known as "shock therapy." These included price liberalization, privatization, and the transition to a market economy. The reforms caused hyperinflation, rising unemployment and falling living standards, which caused social discontent.
The conflict between President Boris Yeltsin and the Supreme Soviet led to an armed clash in Moscow. After suppressing the resistance, Yeltsin dissolved parliament and called elections. On December 12, 1993, the new Constitution of Russia was adopted, which established a presidential republic with strong presidential authority.
Russia conducted a military operation in Chechnya in order to regain control over the republic, which aspired to independence. The war led to heavy losses on both sides and the destruction of Grozny. In 1996, the Khasavyurt Peace was signed, which put an end to the fighting, but the issue of Chechnya's status remained unresolved.
In August 1999, the Second Chechen War began after the invasion of Dagestan by Chechen militants and terrorist attacks in Russia. The troops established control over Chechnya, and the fighting gradually subsided. During the same period, Boris Yeltsin resigned, handing over powers to Prime Minister Vladimir Putin, who won the presidential election in 2000.
Under Putin, Russia has experienced a period of economic stabilization and growth. The vertical of power has strengthened in the country, and the federal center has taken control of key regions and strategic industries. The role of the state in the economy has increased.
In August 2008, there was an armed conflict between Russia and Georgia over South Ossetia. Russia recognized the independence of South Ossetia and Abkhazia, which caused tension in relations with the West. In the same year, Russia faced the global economic crisis, which led to an economic downturn.
In March 2014, Crimea became part of Russia after a referendum. This has led to an aggravation of relations between Russia and the United States with the European Union.
Russia has launched a military operation in Syria in support of the government of Bashar al-Assad. This strengthened its role in the Middle East and allowed it to strengthen its influence in the region.
2020 - COVID-19 pandemic
February 24, 2022 — Russia announced a Special Military Operation in Ukraine