Recent studies of the Riphean- Vendian succession of the Russian Platform have indicated that geological factors favourable for the occurrence of hydrocarbons may be present. These factors include substantial thicknesses of sedimentary rocks; the presence of reservoir rocks and seals, together with source rocks containing sapropelic organic matter; and the occurrence of oil shows, indicating that hydrocarbons have been generated. These factors, coupled with a favourable geographic and economic environment, contrast with the low level of exploration in the area. Following an interval of many years, geological studies in the central parts of the Russian Platform recommenced in the 1990s. A network of seismic lines has been shot, and has provided data on deeply-buried structures in this area, and also on the nature of the lowermost parts of the sedimentary cover. The latter is represented by Proterozoic (Riphean and Vendian) strata, whose petroleum prospectivity on the Russian Platform may be comparable to that of the Siberian Platform. Both the Riphean succession which was deposited in extensive fault-bound grabens, and the unconformably overlying Vendian, include very thick sandstones and claystones. Individual units can be traced on seismic records over distances of tens or even hundreds of km. There is evidence that these sedimentary rocks, particularly those of Vendian age, are of shallow- and deep-marine origin. The high content of sapropelic organic matter which has been recorded in individual units, together with the presence of oil shows, indicate that hydrocarbons have been generated within the Proterozoic interval Both previous studies in this region, and the more recently-obtained data, have encouraged exploration to be continued, and have led to the identification of specific targets.