Key events in Russia’s history include the establishment of the Kievan Rus in the 9th century, its decline, and the rise of the Grand Duchy of Moscow, which gradually unified Russia. The Romanov dynasty began in 1613 and brought stability and territorial expansion, culminating in the vast Russian Empire. The 19th century saw social reforms under Tsar Alexander II. Intellectual and artistic movements flourished, exemplified by literary giants like Tolstoy and Dostoevsky. The early 20th century witnessed the Russian Revolution of 1917, which led to the overthrow of the Romanovs and the establishment of the Soviet Union under the Bolsheviks, with Vladimir Lenin at the helm. This era was marked by collectivization, industrialization, and repression under Joseph Stalin. The USSR's role in World War II as a major Allied power against Nazi Germany greatly influenced global geopolitics. However, internal problems and economic inefficiencies led to the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. During the Cold War, the Soviet Union exerted control over Ukraine and other Eastern European countries as part of its sphere of influence. After the Cold War ended with the collapse of the Soviet Union, Ukraine declared independence, which led to geopolitical shifts and tensions between Russia and the West.

Russia operates under a semi-presidential political system. The President is the head of state and government, while the Prime Minister serves as the head of government. The President holds significant powers, and the State Duma (lower house) and Federation Council (upper house) constitute the legislative branch. The political landscape has been dominated by the ruling United Russia party.

In the late 19th century, industrialization spurred growth, followed by the tumultuous period of the Russian Revolution and subsequent Soviet era marked by a planned economy. After the collapse of the USSR in 1991, Russia transitioned to a market-oriented economy, facing challenges of privatization and economic instability. Rich in natural resources, it emerged as a major oil and gas exporter, driving economic growth. However, it faced setbacks like the 1998 financial crisis. Despite progress, the economy remains susceptible to fluctuations in global commodity prices, corruption, and geopolitical tensions with the West.