Russia is the largest country in the world by land area, stretching across Eastern Europe and northern Asia. It shares land borders with 14 countries, including Ukraine, China and Kazakhstan, and has extensive coastlines along the Arctic and Pacific Oceans. Moscow, the nation’s capital and largest city, serves as its political, economic and cultural center.
Russia has a long and complex history, evolving from the Russian Empire to the Soviet Union before becoming a federal republic in 1991. Since 2000, President Vladimir Putin has been the dominant political figure, overseeing a government that has centralized power and pursuing policies aimed at strengthening Russia’s global influence.
The Russian economy is heavily reliant on natural resources, particularly oil, natural gas and minerals, making it one of the world’s top energy exporters. Other significant industries include manufacturing, agriculture and defense. However, economic sanctions imposed by Western nations in response to its invasion of Ukraine have affected trade, foreign investment and overall economic growth.
In 2022, Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, escalating the conflict that began in 2014 with the annexation of Crimea. The war has led to significant casualties, civilian displacement, and economic and political consequences for Russia. The conflict continues to shape the country’s domestic policies, international standing and relations with other global powers.
