Russia

World Book Index

Introduction

Russia, the largest country in the world, boasts a rich and complex history that has shaped its current political landscape. Under the reign of PETER I (1682-1725), the Principality of Muscovy underwent significant expansion, transforming into the formidable Russian Empire. The subsequent overthrow of the Romanov dynasty in 1917 marked a pivotal moment, leading to the establishment of communism and the formation of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR). Following the USSR's collapse in 1991, Russia experienced a tumultuous transition characterized by political and economic upheaval. In recent years, the nation has seen a consolidation of power under President Vladimir PUTIN, who has been in office since 2000, with a brief interlude from 2008 to 2012. This shift towards a centralized, authoritarian state has drawn both domestic and international scrutiny, reflecting the ongoing complexities of governance in Russia.

Neighboring countries

Azerbaijan - Belarus - China - Estonia - Finland - Georgia - Kazakhstan - Latvia - Lithuania - Mongolia - North Korea - Norway - Poland - Ukraine

Geography

Area
Total: 17,098,242 sq km
Land: 16,377,742 sq km
Water: 720,500 sq km

Russia's vast geography is characterized by its immense land area, making it the largest country in the world. The total area of 17,098,242 sq km encompasses a diverse range of landscapes, from the expansive plains of the steppes in the south to the rugged mountains and tundra of the polar north. The land area alone is 16,377,742 sq km, while the water bodies cover approximately 720,500 sq km. The country's climate varies significantly, ranging from the temperate humid continental climate prevalent in much of European Russia to the subarctic conditions found in Siberia, and the extreme tundra climate in the polar regions. Winters can be harsh, with temperatures plummeting in Siberia, while summers offer a contrast, with warmer temperatures in the southern steppes and cooler conditions along the Arctic coast. Russia's rich natural resources, including major deposits of oil, natural gas, coal, and various strategic minerals, contribute to its economic significance on the global stage. The presence of bauxite, reserves of rare earth elements, and extensive timber resources further enhance its resource wealth.

People and Society

Population
Total: 140,820,810 (2024 estimated)

Ethnic groups
Russian 77.7%, Tatar 3.7%, Ukrainian 1.4%, Bashkir 1.1%, Chuvash 1%, Chechen 1%, other 10.2%, unspecified 3.9% (2010 estimated)

Languages
Russian (official) 85.7%, Tatar 3.2%, Chechen 1%, other 10.1% (2010 estimated)

Religions
Russian Orthodox 15-20%, Muslim 10-15%, other Christian 2% (2006 estimated)

Population growth rate
-0.49% (2024 estimated)

Russia's population, estimated at 140,820,810 in 2024, reflects a diverse tapestry of ethnicities and cultures. The majority ethnic group is Russian, comprising 77.7% of the population, followed by significant minorities such as Tatars (3.7%) and Ukrainians (1.4%). The linguistic landscape is predominantly Russian, which is spoken by 85.7% of the population, with Tatar and Chechen also recognized among the various languages spoken. The religious composition is primarily Russian Orthodox (15-20%), with a notable Muslim minority (10-15%) and other Christian denominations. However, the country faces demographic challenges, as indicated by a population growth rate of -0.49% in 2024, suggesting a decline that may have implications for the workforce and social services in the future.

Government

Government type
Semi-presidential federation

Capital
Name: Moscow

Executive branch
Chief of state: President Vladimir Vladimirovich PUTIN (since 7 May 2012)
Head of government: Premier Mikhail Vladimirovich MISHUSTIN (since 16 January 2020)

Diplomatic representation in the US
Chief of mission: Ambassador Alexander Nikitich DARCHIEV (since 11 June 2025)

Diplomatic representation from the US
Chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Chargé d’Affaires J. Douglas DYKHOUSE (since June 2025)

Russia operates as a semi-presidential federation, where the President serves as the head of state and the Premier as the head of government. The capital city, Moscow, stands as the political and cultural heart of the nation. President Vladimir Vladimirovich PUTIN has held the position since May 7, 2012, following a previous term from 2000 to 2008. The Premier, Mikhail Vladimirovich MISHUSTIN, has been in office since January 16, 2020. The government structure reflects a concentration of power, with significant authority vested in the presidency, which has implications for the political landscape and civil liberties within the country. Diplomatic relations are maintained with various nations, including the United States, where Ambassador Alexander Nikitich DARCHIEV represents Russian interests.

Economy

Economic overview
Natural resource-rich Eurasian economy; leading energy exporter to Europe and Asia; decreased oil export reliance; endemic corruption, Ukrainian invasion, and lack of green infrastructure limit investment and have led to sanctions

Real GDP (purchasing power parity)
$6.089 trillion (2024 estimated)
$5.835 trillion (2023 estimated)
$5.607 trillion (2022 estimated)

Real GDP per capita
$41,700 (2024 estimated)
$39,900 (2023 estimated)
$38,200 (2022 estimated)

Exports
$475.277 billion (2024 estimated)
$465.22 billion (2023 estimated)
$640.878 billion (2022 estimated)

Exports - partners
China 33%, India 17%, Turkey 8%, Kazakhstan 4%, Brazil 3% (2023)

Exports - commodities
Crude petroleum, refined petroleum, natural gas, coal, fertilizers (2023)

Imports
$381.45 billion (2024 estimated)
$379.659 billion (2023 estimated)
$347.384 billion (2022 estimated)

Imports - partners
China 53%, Turkey 5%, Germany 5%, Kazakhstan 5%, Italy 2% (2023)

Imports - commodities
Cars, packaged medicine, broadcasting equipment, garments, plastic products (2023)

The Russian economy is characterized by its vast natural resource wealth, positioning it as a leading energy exporter to both Europe and Asia. With a Real GDP (purchasing power parity) estimated at $6.089 trillion in 2024, the economy has shown resilience despite facing significant challenges. The reliance on oil exports has decreased, reflecting a strategic shift towards diversifying the economy. However, endemic corruption, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, and a lack of green infrastructure continue to hinder foreign investment and have resulted in international sanctions. The Real GDP per capita stands at $41,700, indicating a moderate standard of living for many citizens. In terms of trade, exports are projected at $475.277 billion in 2024, with key partners including China (33%) and India (17%). The export composition is heavily reliant on commodities such as crude and refined petroleum, natural gas, and coal. Conversely, imports are estimated at $381.45 billion, with China being the largest supplier at 53%. The economic landscape is complex, reflecting both opportunities and challenges as Russia navigates its position in the global economy.

Human Development Index

The country's Human Development Index (HDI) is 0.832, ranking it 64th out of 193 countries tested. (more information)

World Happiness Report

The World Happiness Report ranked the country 71st out of 158 countries tested with a score of 5.842. (more information)