The Storming of the Russian Parliament: October 4, 1993

On October 4, 1993, a pivotal event unfolded in Russia’s post-Soviet history when President Boris Yeltsin ordered the storming of the Russian parliament building, known as the White House, effectively ending a constitutional crisis and a tense standoff with hardline lawmakers.

Background

The crisis stemmed from a power struggle between President Boris Yeltsin and the Russian parliament, which was dominated by hardline communists and nationalists resistant to Yeltsin’s reformist agenda. The conflict reached a boiling point in September 1993 when Yeltsin issued a decree to dissolve the parliament, a move deemed unconstitutional by his opponents.

Key Events Leading Up to the Crisis

• Economic Reforms: Yeltsin’s government had embarked on radical economic reforms known as “shock therapy,” which aimed to transition Russia from a planned economy to a market economy. These reforms led to significant economic hardship, including hyperinflation and unemployment, fueling discontent.

• Political Tensions: The parliament, led by Speaker Ruslan Khasbulatov and Vice President Alexander Rutskoy, opposed Yeltsin’s policies and sought to curb his powers. The conflict escalated when Yeltsin attempted to dissolve the parliament, prompting lawmakers to declare Rutskoy as acting president.

• State of Emergency: On September 21, 1993, Yeltsin declared a state of emergency and called for new parliamentary elections, which the parliament rejected, leading to a standoff.

The Storming of the White House

On October 3, 1993, the situation escalated when armed supporters of the parliament attempted to seize key government buildings, including the Ostankino television center. In response, Yeltsin ordered military intervention.

October 4, 1993

• Military Action: Early in the morning, Yeltsin ordered tanks and troops to storm the White House. The military used heavy artillery to shell the building, leading to significant destruction and casualties.

• End of the Standoff: By the afternoon, the resistance within the parliament had collapsed. Key leaders, including Khasbulatov and Rutskoy, were arrested, effectively ending the standoff.

Aftermath and Consequences

• Constitutional Changes: Following the crisis, Yeltsin pushed through a new constitution, which was approved in a December 1993 referendum. The new constitution significantly increased presidential powers, shaping the future of Russian governance.

• Political Impact: The event marked a decisive moment in consolidating Yeltsin’s authority but also highlighted the deep divisions within Russian society. It set a precedent for the use of force in resolving political disputes.

• Legacy: The 1993 constitutional crisis is often seen as a turning point in Russia’s transition from Soviet rule, illustrating the challenges of establishing a stable democratic system amidst economic and political turmoil.

The storming of the Russian parliament remains a controversial chapter in Russia’s history, reflecting the complexities and struggles of the post-Soviet era.