Russia has problems with exporting petroleum out of Siberia. Chernobyl is only second to third largest release of radioactive material. Pollution is a major cause of poor public health in Russia today. It is developing a severe demographic problem. Russia s current fertility rate is below replacement levels, and they have lost a lot its population with the breakaway of the states.
Life expectancy is exceptionally low, especially among men.
It has a severe infrastructure problem. Problems with old, dirty factories with obsolete technologies. The transportation system, especially roads, is underdeveloped. It is seeking its new identity in the nearby Eurasian region and in the world economy. Western oil companies seek a Russian bonanza.