The euphoria was short lived. The Communists gained control of State Duma. Well meaning privatization of state owned industry often transferred control to oligarchs and organized criminals. Yeltsin s physical health was poor and mental health questionable. The economy floundered and corruption was rampant.
Today there is again room for guarded optimism.
In December, a coalition of centrist and right forces regained control of the State Duma. Yeltsin shocked the world once again by resigning the presidency turn the reigns over to Vladimir Putin, his choice as successor. This move caused the date of the presidential election to be moved forward to March 26. It is widely believed that this will help Putin win soundly. Much of the industrial infrastructure is a relic of Soviet times.