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Understanding Russia: A Comprehensive Overview

Key Facts and Insights About the Largest Country in the World

Understanding Russia: A Comprehensive Overview

  • 04 Dec, 2025
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Overview of Russia

Russia, the largest nation on Earth, spans both Europe and Asia, boasting a rich historical tapestry and diverse cultural landscape. This article provides a concise overview of key aspects including its capital, geography, population, language, and historical significance.

Key Facts About Russia

  • Area: 17,098,246 sq. km
  • Capital: Moscow
  • Official Language: Russian
  • President: Vladimir Putin
  • Prime Minister: Mikhail Mishustin
  • Currency: Russian ruble (RUB)
  • Population: Approximately 145 million people

Capital and Location of Russia

Russia is a transcontinental nation, primarily situated in Europe, though it extends into Asia. Its capital, Moscow, stands as the largest and most significant city in the nation.

Countries that Border Russia

Russia shares its borders with 16 countries, the highest number for any nation. Major neighboring countries include:

  • Norway and Finland
  • Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland
  • Belarus and Ukraine
  • Georgia and Azerbaijan
  • Kazakhstan and Mongolia
  • China and North Korea

Additionally, it shares maritime borders with Japan and the United States, and is bordered by the Arctic Ocean to the north and the Pacific Ocean to the east.

A Short History of Russia

Russia has a rich history dating back to ancient tribes and rulers. It has seen the rise and fall of various empires and the formation of the Soviet Union in 1922, with Moscow as its capital. The USSR dissolved in 1991, leading to the establishment of the modern Russian Federation and the introduction of a new constitution in 1993.

Growth of Russian Territory

The vastness of Russia resulted from extensive territorial expansions over centuries, reaching from the Ural Mountains to the Pacific Ocean, and from the Black Sea to the Caspian Sea, including Central Asia and parts of Siberia.

Geography and Area of Russia

Covering over 17 million sq. km, Russia is the largest country in the world. Its diverse geography includes forests, mountains, rivers, lakes, and tundra regions. Due to its vast expanse, Russia spans eleven time zones.

Population of Russia

With a population of around 145 million, Russia is home to ethnic Russians as well as various other groups, including Tatars, Ukrainians, Bashkirs, and Chechens.

Languages Spoken in Russia

The primary official language is Russian, but due to its size, over 35 regional languages are also spoken across different areas.

Religion in Russia

The predominant religion in Russia is Christianity, though Islam, Buddhism, and Judaism are also practiced, with some individuals identifying as non-religious.

Distance between India and Russia

India and Russia are approximately 4,983 km apart, with flights taking around 7 hours to travel between the two nations.

What Russia is Known For

Russia is renowned for several remarkable features:

  • Lake Baikal: The deepest and one of the oldest lakes in the world.
  • The Volga River: Europe’s longest river flowing through western Russia.
  • Unique Climate: Known for some of the coldest temperatures outside polar regions.
  • UNESCO Sites: Home to 30 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, showcasing its cultural and natural wonders.
  • Cultural Traditions: In Russia, gifting flowers in odd numbers is customary, as even numbers are reserved for funerals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the capital of Russia?
Answer: The capital of Russia is Moscow, which is also the largest city in the country, serving as a major cultural and political center.

Q2. How many countries share borders with Russia?
Answer: Russia shares its borders with 16 countries, making it the nation with the highest number of neighboring countries in the world.

Q3. What languages are spoken in Russia?
Answer: While Russian is the official language, over 35 regional languages are also spoken across different parts of the country due to its vastness.

Q4. What is Russia known for culturally?
Answer: Culturally, Russia is known for its rich traditions, including the unique practice of gifting flowers in odd numbers, and it boasts 30 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Q5. What is the population of Russia?
Answer: Russia has a population of approximately 145 million people, comprising various ethnic groups alongside a majority of ethnic Russians.

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