Russia faces a number of challenges in the 21st century.
1. After the fall of global oil and energy prices, the Russian economy was hit hard. Most of the country's income comes from export Oil and Gas to Europe.
But when the price of oil and gas fell, so did Russia's income.
2. Russia faces problems on its border with Ukraine. It recently annexed Crimea from Ukraine but there is a war still going on.
3. Russia has a large income gap, that means there are very few rich people but a lot of poor people. Until Russia solves this problem of poverty, things will not move forward
4. Russia is participant in the War in Syria. It has spent billions of dollars and sent in its army to help the government. How long Russia can last is yet to see