Ukraine is a sovereign country located in Eastern Europe. It is bordered by Belarus to the north, Russia to the northeast and east, the Sea of Azov to the southeast, Crimea to the south, Romania and Moldova to the southwest, and Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary to the west. Its capital and largest city is Kyiv. The country has a rich history influenced by various cultures and empires and is known for its diverse landscapes, including plains, mountains, and coastline along the Black Sea.
Ukraine gained independence from the Soviet Union on August 24, 1991, and it has since established itself as a democratic nation. The country is characterized by its cultural heritage, which includes folk traditions, music, and cuisine. Ukrainian is the official language, and the nation has a significant historical and political role in the region.
In recent years, Ukraine has been at the center of international attention due to ongoing conflicts, particularly with Russia, particularly since the annexation of Crimea in 2014 and the subsequent conflict in Eastern Ukraine. The country is also involved in efforts to strengthen ties with Western Europe and NATO.