Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has described the transfer of presidential power from Boris Yeltsin to Vladimir Putin as a demonstration of divine intervention. He argues this transition allowed Russia to overcome the turbulent 1990s. Lavrov’s statement suggests a belief that Putin’s ascent was predestined and beneficial for the country’s stability. This sentiment echoes increasingly frequent claims by Putin himself, who often asserts Russia enjoys special divine protection. The comments highlight a growing trend within the Russian leadership of invoking religious justification for political actions and authority. Experts suggest this rhetoric serves to bolster Putin’s legitimacy and rally domestic support. The statements represent a notable framing of a key historical moment in post-Soviet Russia.