Analysis
The statement aligns precisely with Gorbachev’s recorded resignation address, broadcast globally and documented in multiple credible sources. His phrasing—'I did what I thought was right. Whether it was a mistake or not, history will judge'—matches verbatim translations from Russian (original: *«Я делал всё, что считал правильным. Была ли это ошибка или нет, пусть судит история.»*). No credible evidence contradicts this attribution.
Background
Gorbachev’s resignation marked the formal dissolution of the USSR, ending the Cold War. His speech acknowledged the collapse of the Soviet system while defending his reforms (*glasnost* and *perestroika*). The quote reflects his recognition of the historic weight of his decisions.
Verdict summary
Mikhail Gorbachev did indeed say this in his resignation speech on December 25, 1991, as confirmed by archival footage and transcripts.