The decree says:
“Due to the resignation of Russian President Boris Yeltsin, I have begun to execute temporarily the presidential powers as of 12:00 on December 31, 1999 in accordance with Article 92 of the Russian constitution.”
The decree is signed by Acting Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Under Article 92 of the Russian constitution, the president shall stop executing his powers before the expiration of his term if he resigns, for health reasons or impeachment. Presidential elections shall take place not later than three months after the termination of presidential powers ahead of schedule. In all cases, when the Russian president is unable to carry out his duties, they shall be temporarily carried out by the prime minister.