Russia is the largest country in the world, extending over Eastern Europe and northern Asia. Known officially as the Russian Federation, it spans eleven time zones and features a diverse range of environments and landscapes, from tundra and forests to mountains and lakes. Russia has a rich history that includes the formation of the Kievan Rus’, the rise of the Tsars, the era of the Soviet Union, and its current status as a federal semi-presidential republic. The country is characterized by its cultural heritage, which includes significant contributions to literature, music, ballet, and the arts. Its capital city is Moscow, which is the political, economic, and cultural center of the country. Russia holds significant geopolitical influence and is a member of various international organizations. The official language is Russian, and the country has a multi-ethnic population with various ethnic groups and languages.
