The influential Russian leader known for implementing perestroika and glasnost is Mikhail Gorbachev. Serving as the General Secretary of the Communist Party from 1985 to 1991, Gorbachev introduced these reforms aimed at revitalizing the Soviet economy and promoting open dialogue in society. Perestroika, meaning "restructuring," sought to modernize the economy by introducing market-like reforms, while glasnost, meaning "openness," encouraged transparency and freedom of expression in government and society. These policies ultimately contributed to the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, marking a significant shift in global political dynamics and paving the way for democratic movements in Eastern Europe.