Russia, officially known as the Russian Federation (Russian: Российская Федерация), spans across Eastern Europe and Northern Asia, making it the largest country in the world by area. It covers a vast expanse of over 17 million square kilometers, extending across eleven time zones. Russia shares land boundaries with fourteen countries and has a varied topography, including deep forests, vast plains, and mountain ranges such as the Caucasus and Ural mountains.
The country’s extensive landscape encompasses the world’s deepest lake, Lake Baikal, and its longest river, the Volga. Russia also boasts a lengthy coastline, extending along the Arctic and Pacific Oceans. Its major cities include Moscow, the capital and largest city, Saint Petersburg, Novosibirsk, Yekaterinburg, Nizhny Novgorod, and others.
Demographics
As of 2022, Russia’s population is estimated to be around 144 million, making it the ninth most populous country globally and the most populous in Europe. The ethnic composition is predominantly Russian (about 71.7%), with notable minority groups including Tatars, Chechens, and Bashkirs. The majority of the population adheres to Russian Orthodoxy, with a significant proportion identifying as non-religious or following Islam.
Russia’s demographic profile shows a low population density, with a substantial portion of its inhabitants residing in the western part of the country. The country has faced demographic challenges, including a declining birth rate and an aging population. The total fertility rate is below the replacement level, contributing to a gradual population decline.
History and Culture
Russia’s rich history dates back to the early medieval period with the East Slavs and the formation of Kievan Rus’. The adoption of Orthodox Christianity from the Byzantine Empire significantly influenced Russian culture. The subsequent history saw the rise of the Tsardom of Russia and the expansion of the Russian Empire.
The 20th century was marked by the Russian Revolution and the formation of the Soviet Union, under which Russia became a major global power. The post-Soviet era, beginning in 1991, saw Russia emerge as a federal semi-presidential republic.
Culturally, Russia has made significant contributions to the arts, science, and global politics. The country is known for its classical music, ballet, literature, and innovations in various scientific fields.