Russia

The Russian Federation is the largest country in the world, stretching from eastern Europe into Asia. As the successor to both the sprawling Russian Empire and the Soviet Union, it retains considerable influence in international affairs. Moscow is the nation’s political centre while Saint Petersburg is its cultural hub.  

Since the collapse of the USSR in 1991, Russian relations with Western nations have shifted between cooperation, competition and outright confrontation. Moscow is keen to maintain its influence over nations it believes belong within its sphere of influence – among them Ukraine – either historically or culturally.

The Russian economy depends heavily on its energy sector, with oil and gas exports its main sources of revenue. While these vast resources offer a degree of financial certainty, they also expose the country to fluctuations in global markets as well as global economic sanctions. The defense industry and agriculture also play a role in sustaining its economy.

Since the year 2000, Russia has been led in some form by Vladimir Putin, who has made no secret of his ambition to restore Russia’s role as a global power whose influence extends far beyond its current borders.  Putin has waged a years-long crackdown on political opponents, critics and the media in pursuit of his aims.