Russian Flag

While the document doesn't specify the exact symbolic meanings of the colors, the flag represents Russian national identity and state sovereignty. The white, blue, and red horizontal stripes have served as symbols of Russian statehood for over three centuries, representing the continuity of Russian national tradition and heritage.

The origins of the Russian tricolour trace back to naval use when Russia was constructing its first naval vessels, serving mainly as a naval ensign until the nineteenth century. The use dates back to Peter the Great, whose personal boat was adorned with white, blue, and red stripes. In 1693, a fleet under Peter's direction sailing to the Solovetsky Islands flew the tricolour, establishing one of the earliest documented uses. As Russian navigators expanded through exploration, the tricolour gradually appeared on land. In 1806, a Russian expedition to southern Sakhalin raised both the St Andrew flag and the white, blue, and red state flag. The flag's journey was interrupted in 1858 when the Government Senate's Heraldry Department proposed changes, leading to 150 years of alterations through political and social transformations before its restoration.

Three equal horizontal stripes arranged from top to bottom: White stripe (top), Blue stripe (middle), Red stripe (bottom). The design follows a simple tricolour horizontal pattern with clean, equal divisions. The rectangular form maintains consistent proportions across all official uses.

Citizens may raise the national flag during private celebrations, official events, and gatherings organized by individuals, companies, or institutions. People can display the flag at homes, on balconies, or at dachas to express pride or celebrate milestones. When displayed with other flags: with two flags, the national flag goes on the left; with three flags, it must be in the center; with four flags, it should be placed left of center. The national flag must not be smaller or positioned lower than regional flags and cannot serve as the heraldic base for regional flags. The flag may appear in state decorations, emblems, and heraldic symbols of federal executive bodies (such as the Gold Star Medal, Federal Guard Service, and Ministry of Agriculture). However, the national flag must not be used as an element or background for logos of commercial organizations to preserve its dignity and symbolic value.