Russia is absolutely massive – the world’s largest country, stretching across 17 million square kilometers and 11 time zones. Despite all that space, only about 144 million people live there, making it pretty sparsely populated at around 8 people per square kilometer. About three-quarters of Russians live in cities, and ethnic Russians make up roughly 80% of the population.
Economically, Russia has a GDP around $2.2 trillion, but here’s the thing – it’s heavily dependent on oil and gas exports, making the economy vulnerable and not particularly diversified. The GDP per capita is only about $15,000, which is low compared to other major economies. There’s also significant inequality and corruption issues that drag down development.
Life expectancy is concerning at just 72 years overall, and it’s particularly grim for men at only 67 years – that’s well below developed nations and reflects serious public health problems, including high rates of alcoholism and cardiovascular disease. The demographic situation is challenging too, with a declining and aging population in many regions.
The country spends about $86 billion annually on its military and maintains a nuclear arsenal, massive expenditures while many Russians live with inadequate infrastructure and services. Russia has been internationally condemned as an aggressor, particularly for its invasion of Ukraine, leading to widespread economic sanctions that have further isolated it economically. It’s a country with enormous resources and territory, but struggling with corruption, authoritarianism, poor health outcomes, and international isolation due to its aggressive foreign policy.
