Boris Yeltsin
In The Times (Commentary, June 11) two views of Boris Yeltsin, president of the Russian Republic, are advanced. S. Frederick Starr says that Yeltsin is a charismatic figure who supports all forms of ownership, yet speaks of a safety net for all adversely affected by economic reform. He also favors negotiation with Lithuania and other republics who wish to secede.
Murray Kempton sees Yeltsin as a demagogue who befuddles the public but makes little sense to the managers of society. Kempton says that Mikhail Gorbachev is permitting Yeltsin center stage, convinced that Yeltsin is due to make a number of serious blunders.
Who is Boris Yeltsin? He is a charismatic demagogue who has learned public relations well and uses it skillfully. He is one who has good intentions but is so idealistic as to be naive. Further, Yeltsin criticizes and utters bold promises without assuming responsibility for his statements. Finally, he is an exceptional person but not wise politician.
DON RADEMACHER
Los Angeles
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