Russia: Information
09-10-2026
Russia: Comprehensive Guide and Essential Information
Russia, officially the Russian Federation, is the largest country in the world by land area, spanning eastern Europe and northern Asia across 11 time zones. Below is an overview of key facts, geography, government, economy, and culture.
Key National Facts
Capital: Moscow
Official Language: Russian
Currency: Russian Ruble (RUB)
Government Type: Federal semi-presidential republic
Largest Cities: Moscow, Saint Petersburg, Novosibirsk, Yekaterinburg, Nizhny Novgorod, Kazan
Geography and Climate Covering over 17 million square kilometers, Russia borders 14 countries by land and features diverse landscapes ranging from Arctic tundra and vast boreal forests (taiga) to steppes and mountain ranges such as the Urals and the Caucasus. Due to its vast size, the climate varies significantly, predominantly characterized by continental and subarctic zones with long, cold winters and short, mild-to-warm summers.
Economy and Natural Resources The Russian economy is heavily reliant on vast reserves of natural resources. It ranks among the world’s leading producers of oil, natural gas, metals, and minerals. Major economic sectors include energy extraction, mining, heavy manufacturing, agriculture (notably grain production), and defense industries.
Culture and Society Russian culture features deep traditions in literature, classical music, ballet, visual arts, and scientific innovation. Notable cultural figures include writers Leo Tolstoy and Fyodor Dostoevsky, composers Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky and Sergei Rachmaninoff, and pioneers in space exploration and mathematics.