10 Questions For Mikhail Gorbachev

[AGENDA21]

Why did you write your new book about perestroika?

We think the introduction of perestroika in the Soviet Union was one of the three most significant events in Soviet history—the others are the 1917 revolution and the victory in World War II. On the 20th anniversary, we thought it important to note it and explain it. And while there has been sharp debate in Russia about perestroika—many people have considered it a bad thing for the country—I think people are starting to change, and polls are showing people appreciate what it did for the country. Seventy-seven percent of Russians say they want to live in a free and democratic country. That is the legacy of perestroika.

Who still thinks perestroika was bad for russia?

The old ruling class, the former communists, veterans. I understand—they have very hard lives now. Life is very difficult for some in Russia today. But I want them to think about it again.

What is the root of the current difficulties in the lives of many russians?

Yeltsin ruined the country. He allowed the wealth of the country to be taken by a few people. And the West was never critical of Yeltsin. I think President Vladimir Putin is correcting the mess that Yeltsin made.

http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1179319,00.html

[TriMetFan]

1. "America is intoxicated by its position as the world's only superpower."

He speaks the truth.

[Nikia]

2. He always did have a grudge against Yeltsin, didn't he?

I wouldn't say that I'd blame him, but his comment reminds me of his comment when Yelstin stood up to the hardliners who had temporary overthrown Gorbachev and Gorbachev's response was less than greatful "We all work."

[MrPrax]

3. Well considering Gorby

actually likes Russia, whereas Yeltsin didn't care and once elected promptly ran the country from his perpetual death bed as a puppet...I can see why Gorby might be annoyed with Yeltsin--I can see why most people might not want a degenerate alcoholic, permanently drunk and constantly throwing up in public, as a leader during such a delicate phase in their country's history.

Why Yeltsin is lioinized in the west--I don't know.