Alexander Korzhakov, Russian general and bodyguard

Alexander Korzhakov: The Enigmatic Power Behind Boris Yeltsin's Throne

Alexander Vasilyevich Korzhakov, born on January 31, 1950, stands as a pivotal and controversial figure in the early post-Soviet history of Russia. A distinguished former KGB general, Korzhakov became an indispensable presence in the life of Russia's first president, Boris Yeltsin. For an extensive period of eleven years, he transcended the traditional role of a bodyguard, evolving into Yeltsin's closest confidant and an influential adviser.

From Personal Security to Presidential Power Broker

Korzhakov's journey with Boris Yeltsin began in 1985, long before Yeltsin ascended to the presidency. This deep-rooted connection fostered an extraordinary level of trust and familiarity, which would profoundly shape the dynamics of early Russian politics. His proximity to Yeltsin allowed him unparalleled access and influence, making him a central, albeit often unseen, player in critical decisions.

One of the most iconic moments in recent Russian history, the attempted August Coup of 1991, vividly showcased Korzhakov's unwavering loyalty. On August 19, 1991, as hardline communists attempted to seize control, Korzhakov stood resolute beside Boris Yeltsin atop a tank outside the Russian White House. This powerful image, symbolizing defiance against the coup plotters, cemented Yeltsin's popular support and marked a turning point in the collapse of the Soviet Union. Korzhakov's presence in this defining moment underscored his integral role in Yeltsin's personal and political security.

From 1991 to 1996, Korzhakov was at the helm of the Presidential Security Service (PSB), a role that became the nexus of his considerable power. The PSB, which evolved from the elite 9th Directorate of the KGB responsible for protecting top Soviet officials, was transformed under Korzhakov's leadership. It expanded far beyond conventional security functions, reportedly engaging in surveillance, intelligence gathering, and even economic activities, effectively becoming a parallel power structure within the Kremlin. This expansion of power allowed Korzhakov to wield significant influence over various aspects of the government and the nascent Russian business landscape.

Controversy, Dismissal, and Post-Kremlin Life

Throughout his tenure as Chief of the Presidential Security Service, Korzhakov faced widespread criticism for what was perceived as undue interference in governmental affairs and private business. His actions often blurred the lines between state security and personal political maneuvering, leading to accusations of using his position to influence policy, personnel decisions, and economic ventures.

The zenith of Korzhakov's influence coincided with the chaotic political landscape of the mid-1990s. However, his powerful standing ultimately led to his downfall. In June 1996, amidst a highly contested presidential election campaign, Korzhakov was unceremoniously dismissed. This abrupt removal followed an intense power struggle within Boris Yeltsin's inner circle, particularly with reform-minded officials such as Anatoly Chubais and then-Prime Minister Viktor Chernomyrdin. The immediate catalyst for his dismissal was a scandal involving the detention of two individuals linked to Yeltsin's re-election campaign, who were caught attempting to remove a briefcase reportedly containing a large sum of cash from the government's White House building. This incident exposed the deep factionalism and backroom dealings that characterized the period, leading Yeltsin to act decisively to consolidate his authority.

Following his dismissal from the PSB, Korzhakov successfully transitioned into parliamentary politics. He won a seat as a deputy in the State Duma, the lower house of the Russian parliament, a position he held from 2007 to 2011. Serving as a State Duma deputy provided him with parliamentary immunity from prosecution, a significant advantage given the controversies that had shadowed his career.

In 1997, Korzhakov published a controversial biography, which offered his unique perspective on his time at the very top echelons of Russian politics. In this memoir, he made the audacious claim that he and the Presidential Security Service effectively "governed the country for three years," specifically referencing the period between 1993 and 1996. This assertion underscored his perceived deep involvement in state management and decision-making, highlighting the extraordinary informal power he accumulated during the Yeltsin era. Alexander Korzhakov, who retired as a Lieutenant-General, remains a fascinating case study in the dynamics of power and loyalty in post-Soviet Russia.

Frequently Asked Questions About Alexander Korzhakov

Who is Alexander Korzhakov?

Alexander Vasilyevich Korzhakov is a former Russian KGB general who gained significant prominence as Boris Yeltsin's long-serving bodyguard, confidant, and adviser during the crucial years of Russia's post-Soviet transition. He later served as the head of the Presidential Security Service (PSB) and a State Duma deputy.

What was Korzhakov's relationship with Boris Yeltsin?

Korzhakov served as Yeltsin's personal bodyguard starting in 1985. Over eleven years, this relationship deepened significantly, with Korzhakov becoming one of Yeltsin's most trusted confidants and informal advisers, wielding considerable influence behind the scenes.

What was the Presidential Security Service (PSB) under Korzhakov's leadership?

Under Alexander Korzhakov's leadership from 1991 to 1996, the PSB expanded far beyond its initial security mandate. It became a powerful, almost parallel, intelligence and enforcement agency within the Kremlin, reportedly interfering in government affairs, business, and political processes.

Why was Alexander Korzhakov dismissed in 1996?

Korzhakov was dismissed in June 1996 following a significant power struggle within Boris Yeltsin's inner circle, particularly with reformist figures. The immediate trigger was a scandal involving the detention of individuals with campaign funds, which highlighted intense factionalism and ultimately led Yeltsin to remove Korzhakov to consolidate control during the presidential re-election campaign.

What did Korzhakov claim in his biography?

In his 1997 biography, Alexander Korzhakov controversially claimed that he and the Presidential Security Service effectively "governed the country for three years" (referring to the 1993-1996 period), underscoring the extraordinary informal power he believed he exercised within the Yeltsin administration.