Ukraine, formerly known as the Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic, declared independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. It is now the second-largest country by area in Eastern Europe, bordering Russia to the east andBelarus to the northwest. Ukraine's economy has both agricultural and industrial strengths, with notable industries including steel, machinery, and agriculture, and key companies including PrivatBank and Ukraine International Airlines.
Expat destinations in Ukraine
Demographics of Ukraine:
Ethnic groups
Ukrainian: 77% Russian: 17% Belarusian: 0.6% Polish: 0.3% Jewish: 0.2% Other or Unspecified: 3.3%
Languages
Ukrainian (official): 75% Russian: 19% Crimean Tatar: 0.4% Other or Unspecified: 0.3%
Religion Overview
Ukraine is predominantly Orthodox Christian, with the majority adhering to the Ukrainian Orthodox Church. Other religions include Roman Catholicism, Protestantism, and Judaism.
Major Religions
Climate
Ukraine's climate is mostly temperate continental and humid continental, with four distinct seasons. Winters are long and cold, while summers are warm and moderately humid.
Economy Overview
Key Industries
- Steel
- Machinery
- Agribusiness
- Aviation
- Energy
- Chemicals
Major Companies
- PrivatBank
- Ukraine International Airlines
- Metinvest
- Kryvorizal
- UkrNAFTA
- EnergoCapital
Culture and Language Overview
Ukrainian culture has a compelling mix of ancient and modern elements. Art, music, dance, and cuisine all play significant roles in traditional and contemporary culture alike. The Ukrainian language also holds a significant place in the country's national culture.
Cultural Highlights
- Pysanka (Easter Eggs) and Maslenitsa (Butter Week) - Traditional arts and festivals which are an integral part of Ukrainian culture
- Babi Yar - A poignant memorial to a Holocaust tragedy that took place during World War II
- Vinnytsia Puppet Theatre - A famous puppet theatre that is one of the best in Europe
- Karpaty - A professional football team that has won numerous Ukrainian league titles
- Myroslav SK Mozyayk - A prize-winning author whose works focus on Ukrainian history and culture
Geography and Landmarks Overview
Ukraine is home to a diverse array of landscapes, ranging from rolling hills to stunning coastlines. Its many landmarks leave visitors awestruck.
Notable Landmarks
- St. Sophia's Cathedral - A Medieval UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Kiev
- Pechersk Lavra - Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, with multiple cathedrals and burial sites of historical figures
- Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant - Famous for its immense tragedy in 1986 but is currently undergoing clean-up and rebuilding
- Carpathian Mountains - A vast array of rugged mountains and foothills that mark Ukraine's western boundary
- Desnianskyi Forest Park - Kiev's largest park, which consists of woods, ponds, and numerous walking and cycling trails
National Holidays
- Independence Day (August 24)
- Victory Day (May 9)
- New Year's Day (January 1)
- Christmas (January 7)
- Easter Sunday (Date varies)
- Easter Monday (Date varies)
Political Stability
Ukraine became independent from the Soviet Union in 1991 and has since faced numerous political changes, including a revolution in 2014. The country is a democratic republic but has faced ongoing territorial disputes with neighboring Russia over the autonomous republics of Crimea and some areas of Donetsk and Luhansk.
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