Understanding Russia's Geopolitical Challenges

The video explores Russia's geographical challenges, including its flat western borders, limited ocean access, and harsh internal climate. Historically, these factors have made Russia vulnerable to invasions and restricted its trade capabilities. Despite these challenges, Russia has maintained global influence through its vast oil and natural gas resources. The video also discusses how Russia's economy adapted to sanctions by redirecting energy exports to Asia.

What geographical feature makes Russia's western border difficult to defend?

• Dense forests

• Deserts

• Flat plains

• Mountain ranges

Which country has Russia maintained close ties with to buffer its western border?

• Estonia

• Poland

• Belarus

• Ukraine

What is a major challenge for Russia's ocean access?

• NATO-controlled straits

• Pirate activity

• Frozen waterways

• Lack of ports

Which port in Russia remains ice-free year-round despite being in the Arctic Circle?

• St. Petersburg

• Vladivostok

• Magadan

• Murmansk

What percentage of Russia's land is arable?

• 7%

• 35%

• 15%

• 25%

What natural feature covers a majority of Russia, making agriculture difficult?

• Mountain ranges

• Permafrost

• Deserts

• Swamps

What is a key factor that has allowed Russia to maintain its global influence?

• Military strength

• Technological innovation

• Oil and natural gas resources

• Tourism industry

Which two countries are the only ones ahead of Russia in crude oil production?

• China and India

• Saudi Arabia and United States

• Saudi Arabia and Canada

• United States and China

How did Russia respond to the sanctions on its oil by European countries?

• Stopped oil production

• Increased domestic consumption

• Redirected exports to Asia

• Reduced oil prices

What was the unexpected outcome of the sanctions on Russian oil in terms of its GDP?

• GDP increased by 5%

• GDP decreased by 11%

• GDP decreased by 2.1%

• GDP remained unchanged