Part 4/13:
Projections from the United Nations paint a grim future: under the worst-case scenario, Russia’s population could plummet from roughly 146 million today to as few as 57 million by 2100—a staggering decline. Even more conservative estimates from Russian authorities suggest the population could fall to around 130 million by 2046.
This decline isn’t just a demographic statistic; it has profound implications for Russia's geopolitical influence. A smaller population translates into a weaker economy, diminished military capacity, and a reduced presence on the world stage. In essence, Russia’s power is increasingly being drained from the inside out because of its shrinking domestic base.