The area now known as Ukraine was settled in the 5th century. Yet, it only recently became an independent nation in 1991. For over a millennium, the people of this region have been dominated by foreign powers, leaving the country with a fractured civil society and a weak national identity. Even today, our nation continues to struggle with the consequences of centuries of strife. In addition to a present war with Russia within our borders, 80 percent of the country’s 35 million people are considered food insecure. One in three of our families face grinding poverty, and the population is declining as citizens die early or leave for opportunities in other countries. Life in our villages is especially hard. Even so, we continue to rise above rampant corruption, the abuse of power, and great injustices. The struggles our country faces are significant, but Ukrainians are and have always been a strong, intelligent, and resourceful people.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most asked questions about Ukraine.
Ukraine is a country in Eastern Europe. It is the largest country entirely in Europe, bordered by Russia to the east, Belarus to the north, Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary to the west, and Romania and Moldova to the south.
In the 5th century, various East Slavic tribes settled in the region that is now Ukraine.
By the 9th century, Kyivan Rus’ emerged as a powerful state, centered around Kyiv.
In 988, Prince Volodymyr the Great adopted Christianity, marking a significant event in Ukrainian history.
In the 11th century, Ukraine was a center of Slavic civilization, with Kyiv as a cultural hub.
The region endured Mongol rule in the 13th century and later became part of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth.
In the 17th century, the Cossack Hetmanate gained autonomy in parts of Ukraine.
Ukraine experienced division and foreign rule, with western Ukraine under Poland and eastern Ukraine under Russia.
In 1991, Ukraine declared independence from the Soviet Union, becoming a sovereign nation again. Euromaidan began in late 2013 when Ukraine’s then-President Viktor Yanukovych rejected a trade deal with the European Union in favor of closer ties with Russia. This decision sparked widespread protests in Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities that grew into a massive movement, with people demanding political reform, an end to corruption, and closer ties with Europe. The Maidan Revolution marked a turning point in Ukraine’s history, leading to significant political and social changes.
Ukrainian cuisine is known for its hearty and diverse dishes. Some popular Ukrainian foods include borsch (beet soup), varenyky (dumplings), holubtsi (cabbage rolls), and salo (pork fat). Ukraine also has a strong tradition of baking with various types of bread and pastries.
UPDATES ON THE WAR
The full-scale Russian invasion in February 2022 was a continuation of the crime of aggression that Russia has been carrying out against Ukraine since February 2014, temporarily occupying the Autonomous Republic of Crimea, the city of Sevastopol, and certain areas of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions.
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