Ukraine
Ukraine, officially referred to as the Ukraine, is a country located in Eastern Europe between Russia and Romania, and it is the second most populous in Europe with a population of just over 43 million. Its capital and the largest city is Kiev. Its official language, Ukrainian, is spoken by a majority of the population.
The history of Ukraine is complex, as it has been shaped by numerous empires and ethnicities throughout the years. It is believed that the first settlement of what is now modern day Ukraine was in the 9th century and the area was contested by the Poles, Lithuanias, and the Mongols before eventually coming under the rule of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth in the 16th century. In the 18th century, much of Ukraine was annexed to the Russian Empire. After centuries of foreign rule, Ukraine declared its independence in 1991 following the fall of the Soviet Union.
Ukraine has a diverse climate with each region having its own unique characteristics. The country is divided into three main climate regions: the temperate continental region in the north and west, the warm sub-Mediterranean region in the south and the semi-arid Steppe east of the country. The temperatures range depending on the region and the time of year, but the average summer temperature is 25 degrees Celsius and the average winter temperature is -7 degrees Celsius.
The economy of Ukraine is largely based on agriculture, which accounts for more than 12 percent of its GDP. The country is a major exporter of agricultural products and its major exports include grains, sugar, sunflower oil, and poultry. Other important sectors include industry and services, specifically in finance, IT, and tourism.
Ukraine is home to a variety of traditional cuisines. Ukrainians take pride in their traditional dishes including borscht (a beet-based soup), piroshki (stuffed pastries), salo (bacon-like pork fat), and varenyky (dumplings). International cuisine can also be found in Ukraine, though much of it is represented in Eastern European and Russian forms.
Ukraine is a country with a rich history and culture, and its people are known for their warm hospitality and welcoming nature. In recent years, the country has become increasingly popular with tourists who want to explore its many sights and attractions. From golden-domed churches to beautiful nature reserves, Ukraine provides something for everyone.
