Before getting into any visa application, I think one of the first things worth checking is whether your nationality qualifies for the relevant option. That can save a lot of wasted effort, especially if travel arrangements are already being considered. For anyone looking into a trip to Russia, Eligible Countries for Russia Visa provides information on the countries included under the relevant visa arrangements. I’d verify that point first, then look at the other requirements that apply to the trip. Keeping the research focused on your own circumstances also makes the process easier to understand instead of relying on general information that may not apply to every traveler.