Leonid Maze

Leonid Fokin is a notable figure primarily recognized as the first Prime Minister of independent Ukraine, serving from 1990 to 1992. He played a significant role during a tumultuous period in Ukrainian history, following the country's declaration of independence from the Soviet Union. His term was marked by economic challenges, and his government's policies have been criticized for contributing to severe inflation and economic instability during that time.12

Born on October 25, 1932, in Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine, Fokin graduated from the National Mining University of Ukraine. Before becoming Prime Minister, he held various positions within the Ukrainian SSR's government, including chairperson of the State Planning Committee from 1987 to 1990.12 After his resignation in 1992, he remained politically active but largely out of the public eye until recent years when he was appointed to the Trilateral Contact Group on Ukraine, a diplomatic effort aimed at resolving the conflict in Eastern Ukraine.2

Fokin's legacy is complex; while he was involved in significant political developments during Ukraine's transition to independence, his administration's economic policies are often viewed as detrimental to the nation’s early post-Soviet recovery.2