Russia, the largest country in the world, spans an impressive expanse across northern Eurasia, covering 11 time zones. This vast nation has long been a subject of fascination, once famously described by Winston Churchill as “a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma.” Indeed, understanding Russia is no small feat, so let’s explore some key aspects of this complex and intriguing country.
One of the most striking features of Russia is its cold climate. In some northern cities like Yakutsk, car owners have to park their vehicles in heated garages and keep the engine running all day just to prevent it from freezing. Despite its immense size, with an area of 17 million square kilometers—more than twice that of the United States—only 35% of Russia’s territory is habitable. The rest is dominated by permafrost, making agriculture a challenge, with a growing season that lasts just two to four months, compared to eight to nine months in Europe and the US. The Russian landscape is diverse, ranging from tundras and steppes to forests, mountains, and even subtropical beaches.
Russia’s vast territory is divided into several major regions: the European part, the South, the Urals, Siberia, and the Far East. Despite the size of the country, 77% of its population lives in the European part, leaving large swathes of the country sparsely populated. The typical Russian landscape in these areas is often characterized by wide-open spaces and an abundance of natural beauty.
Economically, Russia is a powerhouse of natural resources. It ranks first in the world for natural gas and forest reserves, second for coal reserves, and sixth for oil reserves. The World Bank estimates that Russia’s natural resources are worth a staggering $75 trillion. However, this wealth does not always translate into prosperity for its citizens. In 2016, the average salary in Russia was just 28,000 rubles, or about $450 a month, highlighting a significant disparity between the country’s riches and the living standards of its people. The state controls about 70% of the economy, with major companies like Gazprom and Rosneft being state-owned monopolies.
Despite the challenges, there are some successful private companies in Russia, such as the supermarket chain Magnit, the internet company Yandex, and the online bank Tinkoff. However, these companies often operate under strict government control. While certain services like taxis, internet, and utilities are more affordable in Russia than in the West, issues like corruption and bureaucracy hinder the country’s development.
Urbanization has dramatically changed Russia over the past century. In 1900, 85% of the population lived in rural areas, but today, three-quarters of Russians live in cities. Moscow, the capital, is a vibrant and bustling metropolis where salaries are significantly higher than in the rest of the country. The Moscow subway system is one of the busiest in the world, serving nine million passengers daily. St. Petersburg, known for its beauty and cultural heritage, is often compared to European cities like Paris and Rome.
Other major cities in Russia include Novosibirsk, a scientific hub in Siberia; Yekaterinburg, a city rich in history and culture located at the border between Europe and Asia; Kazan, the capital of Tatarstan where Russian and Tatar cultures coexist; and Krasnodar, a fast-growing city near the Black Sea that attracts residents from colder northern regions.
While Russian villages are in decline, with many being abandoned, the country retains a strong educational system, particularly in secondary education. However, the “brain drain” phenomenon continues to affect Russia, with many highly qualified professionals seeking better opportunities abroad or in larger cities like Moscow.
Tourism in Russia is a growing industry, with 28 million visitors in 2013 alone. Popular destinations include Moscow, St. Petersburg, the resorts of the Krasnodar region, and the Trans-Siberian Railroad. Natural wonders like Lake Baikal, the world’s deepest lake and largest source of fresh water, and the vast Siberian taiga, the largest forest on the planet, also draw visitors from around the globe.
Despite its immense natural resources, many Russians live modestly in high-rise apartment buildings, though some own summer cottages where they can relax and grow their own food. The country’s infrastructure is extensive, with Russia ranking third in the world for the length of its railroads, but road construction remains a contentious issue, with many federal roads failing to meet modern standards.
In terms of safety, while Russia’s murder rate is higher than that of many Western countries, its rates of other crimes, like rape, are lower. The quality of healthcare is a concern, with life expectancy for men at just 65 years, though the birthrate is higher than in Europe.
Russia’s political landscape is dominated by Vladimir Putin, who has been in power since 1999. The media is heavily controlled, and freedom of speech is limited, with journalists and citizens facing repercussions for dissent. Despite these challenges, Russia remains a country with a rich cultural heritage, a diverse population, and a deep sense of patriotism.
Russian cuisine, though not often celebrated internationally, is hearty and flavorful, with dishes like borscht, pelmeni, and blini being staples. Russian women are known for their beauty and fashion sense, often dressing up even for casual outings. Social customs differ from those in the West, with Russians typically reserving smiles for close friends rather than strangers.
Sports are an important part of Russian culture, with football, hockey, and gymnastics being particularly popular. In recent years, the trend towards a healthy lifestyle has grown, with many new fitness centers and outdoor activities gaining popularity.
Russia is a country of contrasts, with its vast territories, rich natural resources, and complex social and political landscape. Despite its challenges, it remains a nation of great potential and enduring fascination. What do you think about Russia?