Along with the development of the Indo-Soviet "special relationship", during the Cold War era, the Soviet Union consistently supported India in the Kashmir issue. However, the disintegrated Soviet Union had a negative impact on bilateral relations. The emergence of Russia has witnessed a fundamental change in relations between the two countries in general as well as changes in Russia's perception and attitudes about Kashmir in particular. During the years of President B.Yelstin's rule, Russia's view of Kashmir has shifted from unclear to fully supportive India.