Here's a breakdown:
* Not mandatory, but widespread: English is not a mandatory subject nationwide like in some other countries. However, it's offered in the vast majority of schools, both public and private, making it a popular choice.
* Varying levels of depth: The amount of time devoted to English varies from school to school. Some focus on basic conversation and vocabulary, while others delve deeper into grammar and literature.
* Increasing importance: In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on English education in Russia. This is due to the increasing globalization of the world and the need for Russians to communicate effectively with people from different cultures.
* Fluency varies: While many Russians have some exposure to English in school, the level of fluency varies greatly. Factors influencing fluency include:
* Location: Larger cities and more metropolitan areas tend to have higher levels of English proficiency.
* Individual motivation: Some students are highly motivated to learn English, while others may be less interested.
* Resources and opportunities: Access to quality teachers, learning materials, and opportunities for practice (e.g., travel, online resources) all play a role.
In short, while English is not required for all students in Russia, it is widely taught and many Russians have at least some basic knowledge of the language. However, fluency levels can vary significantly.