The Russian population is decreasing by approximately 700 people a day, or more than 250,000 people annually, according to the Eurasia Daily Monitor.
Some cities, like Murmansk, have experienced population declines of more than 30% since the end of the Soviet Union.
The decrease is due in part to aging demographics, falling immigration rates, and a failure by the government to enforce health and food regulations. Some observers place the blame on Western economic sanctions, which have contributed to Russian poverty and economic uncertainty.
The decline could continue to pose problems for Russia's economy for years to come.