A Russian DECREE is a type of edict issued by the Tsar or other high-ranking officials in Imperial Russia. The term 'UKASE' is the Russian equivalent of the English word 'DECREE' and was used to refer to such decrees. Ukases were issued to regulate various aspects of life in Russia, from taxation to military service. They were also used to declare war and peace, and to grant privileges and rights to certain individuals or groups.