The Russian Federation, commonly known as Russia, is the largest country in the world by land area, spanning across Eastern Europe and Northern Asia. With a population of over 144 million people, it is also the ninth most populous nation globally. Russia shares borders with fourteen countries, including Norway, Finland, China, and Kazakhstan, among others. Its capital city is Moscow, which is not only the largest city in Russia but also serves as its economic, political, and cultural hub.
Russia is a federal semi-presidential republic, meaning it has a mixed political system with both a president and a prime minister. The current president is Vladimir Putin, who has been in power since 1999, either as president or prime minister. The country operates under a multi-party system, although the ruling party, United Russia, has held a majority in the State Duma (the lower house of the Federal Assembly) since 2003.
As a member of the United Nations, Russia plays a significant role in global politics. It is one of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council and holds veto power, allowing it to influence decisions on matters of international peace and security. Russia is also a member of other major international organizations, such as the G20, BRICS, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation.
With its vast territory, Russia boasts a diverse landscape, encompassing various geographical features. It is home to the Ural Mountains, which separate Europe from Asia, as well as numerous rivers, including the Volga, which is the longest river in Europe. The country also has extensive natural resources, including oil, natural gas, coal, and minerals, making it one of the leading global producers and exporters in these sectors.
Russia's rich history and cultural heritage are evident in its architecture, literature, music, and arts. The country has given birth to renowned figures like Leo Tolstoy, Fyodor Dostoevsky, and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, who have made significant contributions to world literature and classical music. Additionally, Russian cuisine, known for its hearty and flavorful dishes, has gained popularity worldwide, with dishes like borscht and beef stroganoff becoming international favorites.