The President of the Russian Federation is the head of state, supreme commander-in-chief, and the highest-ranking constitutional office in Russia. The president determines the basic guidelines of domestic and foreign policy, represents the nation internationally, and exercises extensive authority over national defense, security, and key governmental appointments. Established in 1991 following a nationwide referendum, the post was first held by Boris Yeltsin and its executive powers were substantially expanded under the 1993 Constitution.