UKRAINE – A land of resilience, spirit, and heritage
- Paul Aage Hegvik
- Mar 3
- 12 min read
Updated: Mar 14
Located in Eastern Europe, Ukraine is the largest country in the region, bordering Russia, Poland, and the Black Sea. Founded as an independent state in 1991 after the fall of the Soviet Union, its history stretches back to the medieval Kyivan Rus, a powerful Slavic state.
Ukraine’s landscape is diverse, featuring vast steppes, the Carpathian Mountains, and fertile farmlands, earning it the nickname «Europe’s breadbasket».
General Information
Official Name: Ukraine
Capital: Kyiv (Kiev)
Official Language: Ukrainian
Currency: Ukrainian Hryvnia (UAH)
Time zone: Eastern European Time (EET), UTC +2 (DST)
National day: August 24 (Independence Day)
Motto: «Glory to Ukraine! Glory to the heroes!»
National anthem: «Shche ne vmerla Ukraina» (Ukraine’s Glory Has Not Yet Perished)
Geography & environment
Total area: 603,550 km²
Climate: Predominantly temperate continental, with cold winters and warm summers. The southern regions are more Mediterranean.
Geographical features: Ukraine is bordered by Russia, Belarus, Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, Moldova, and the Black Sea, with vast plains, fertile soils, and large river systems like the Dnieper.
Highest point: The highest point in Ukraine is Hoverla, which rises to 2,061 meters (6,762 feet) above sea level in the Carpathian Mountains.
Largest lake: The largest lake in Ukraine is Lake Synevir, which spans about 5 hectares (12 acres).
Longest river: The longest river in Ukraine is the Dnieper River, stretching about 1,400 kilometers (870 miles) through the country.
Largest island: The largest island in Ukraine is Dzharylhach Island, located in the Black Sea, with an area of about 43 square kilometers.
Deepest point: The deepest point of Ukraine is located in the Black Sea, at a depth of about 2,212 meters (7,257 feet).
Longest coastline: The coastline of Ukraine along the Black Sea and Sea of Azov is approximately 2,782 kilometers (1,730 miles).
National Parks: Ukraine has several national parks, including the Carpathian National Nature Park and the Askania-Nova Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO site.
Attractions - From ancient cathedrals to natural wonders
Kyiv Pechersk Lavra
Located in the heart of Kyiv, this Orthodox Christian monastery, founded in 1051, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It features golden-domed churches, underground caves with mummified monks, and breathtaking views of the Dnipro River. Visitors can reach Kyiv Pechersk Lavra via the Kyiv Metro, with Arsenalna Station being the closest stop, followed by a short walk.
Saint Sophia's Cathedral
Also in Kyiv, this 11th-century cathedral is one of Ukraine’s most important religious and cultural landmarks. The interior is adorned with well-preserved mosaics and frescoes, including the famous Virgin Orans. The cathedral is located in the city center and is easily accessible by public transport, with Zoloti Vorota and Maidan Nezalezhnosti Metro Stations nearby.
Lviv’s Old Town
Lviv, located in western Ukraine, is known for its well-preserved historic center filled with colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and charming cafés. Rynok Square, the heart of the city, is surrounded by stunning Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Lviv is well-connected by train from Kyiv and other major cities, and the international airport offers direct flights from various European destinations.
Odessa’s Potemkin Stairs
Overlooking the Black Sea, the Potemkin Stairs is one of Odessa’s most iconic landmarks. Built in the 19th century, the staircase creates an optical illusion, appearing longer from the bottom than from the top. Visitors can reach Odessa via train or domestic flights from Kyiv, and the stairs are within walking distance of the city center and the seaport.
Tunnel of Love
Located near the town of Klevan in northwestern Ukraine, the Tunnel of Love is a natural wonder formed by trees arching over an abandoned railway track. This enchanting green corridor stretches for several kilometers and is especially popular among couples and photographers. The best time to visit is in late spring and summer when the foliage is at its most vibrant.
To reach the Tunnel of Love, travelers can take a train or bus to Rivne, the nearest major city, and then continue by taxi or local bus to Klevan, which is about 25 kilometers away. The site is easily accessible on foot from the town.
Khortytsia Island
Located in Zaporizhzhia, this historic island on the Dnipro River was once a stronghold of the Zaporizhian Cossacks. Today, it is a national reserve with scenic landscapes, museums, and a reconstructed Cossack fortress. Visitors can reach Zaporizhzhia by train from Kyiv or Lviv, and local buses or taxis provide easy access to the island. Khortytsia Island remains (mars 2025) under Ukrainian control. It is located in Zaporizhzhia, a city in southeastern Ukraine, which is near the front lines but still governed by Ukraine. While Russia has occupied parts of the Zaporizhzhia region, including the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, the city of Zaporizhzhia itself—and Khortytsia Island—has not fallen under Russian occupation as of now.
Carpathian mountains
Stretching across western Ukraine, the Carpathian Mountains offer stunning natural beauty, traditional Hutsul villages, and excellent hiking and skiing opportunities. The region includes ski resorts like Bukovel and Yaremche, as well as picturesque wooden churches. Travelers can take a train to Ivano-Frankivsk or Lviv and then continue by bus or taxi to their preferred mountain destination.
Kamianets-Podilskyi Castle
Perched on a rocky island surrounded by the Smotrych River canyon, this medieval fortress is one of Ukraine’s most impressive castles. It has stood for centuries, withstood numerous invasions, and now serves as a historical museum. The town of Kamianets-Podilskyi can be reached by train or bus from Kyiv, Lviv, or Chernivtsi, followed by a short walk to the castle.
Sofiyivka Park
Located in Uman, this 18th-century romantic landscape park is filled with picturesque grottoes, waterfalls, and classical sculptures.
It was created as a gift of love from a Polish nobleman to his wife. Uman is a convenient stop along the highway between Kyiv and Odesa, and buses from both cities make the trip in about three hours.
Synevyr Lake
Nestled in the Carpathians, Synevyr Lake is the largest mountain lake in Ukraine, often called the «Eye of the Carpathians» due to its stunning blue waters. It is surrounded by dense pine forests and is associated with local legends. The nearest major city is Mukachevo, accessible by train from Lviv or Kyiv, with buses or taxis available for the final stretch into the mountains.
Culture in Ukraine
Brief history
Ukraine has a rich cultural heritage shaped by Kyivan Rus', the Cossack era, and influences from Polish, Austrian, and Russian rule. Despite centuries of foreign domination, Ukrainians preserved their language, folklore, and traditions. Since gaining independence in 1991, Ukraine has experienced a cultural revival, strengthening its national identity through music, art, and literature.
Traditions
Ukrainian traditions are deeply rooted in folklore and Orthodox Christianity. Important customs include:
Malanka – A vibrant New Year’s Eve celebration with costumed performances.
Pysanka – The ancient art of decorating Easter eggs with intricate designs.
Kupala Night – A midsummer festival featuring bonfires, dancing, and fortune-telling.
Vyshyvanka Day – A national celebration of Ukraine’s embroidered shirts, symbolizing cultural pride.
Ukraine’s environment
Environmental Issues: Ukraine faces air pollution, deforestation, soil erosion, and the long-term impact of the Chernobyl disaster.
Biodiversity: Ukraine is home to a wide range of species, including European bison, lynxes, wolves, and diverse bird species.
Renewable Energy: Ukraine is transitioning toward renewable energy sources, focusing on wind, solar, and bioenergy to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Sustainability: Efforts are underway to protect the country’s ecosystems, although challenges remain in the face of conflict and industrialization.
Water supply: Ukraine has abundant water resources, including the Dnieper River, which provides freshwater to millions of people.
Energy: Ukraine relies heavily on coal and nuclear energy but is increasingly investing in renewables.
Waste management: Ukraine faces challenges in waste management and recycling, though there are ongoing efforts to improve this sector.
Air quality: Major cities, particularly Kyiv and industrial zones, face air pollution due to urbanization and industry.
Forests: Forests cover about 15% of Ukraine’s land area, with efforts to protect and sustainably manage forest resources.
Carbon neutrality goal: Ukraine aims to reduce its carbon footprint, with the government targeting significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.
Energy efficiency: Ukraine is working to improve energy efficiency, especially in public buildings and industry, to reduce energy consumption.
Government & politics
Government type: Unitary republic with a semi-presidential system
President: Volodymyr Zelensky (as of 2025)
Prime minister: Denys Shmyhal
Political structure: Ukraine is divided into 24 oblasts (regions) and the Autonomous Republic of Crimea, with Kyiv as the capital city.
Corruption index: Ukraine struggles with corruption, though recent reforms have aimed to reduce it, and the country has made progress in anti-corruption efforts.
LGBTQ+ rights: Same-sex relationships are not legally recognized, and LGBTQ+ rights are not fully protected, though societal attitudes are gradually changing.
Press freedom: Press freedom is protected, but journalists face threats and harassment, particularly in conflict zones.
Foreign relations: Ukraine has a strong desire to integrate with the European Union and NATO, while facing ongoing conflict with Russia.
Social policies: Ukraine is working on reforming its healthcare and education systems to improve services for its citizens.
Neutrality: The country has been actively seeking alignment with the West, particularly through NATO and the EU.
Security & cybersecurity: Ukraine has been a target of cyberattacks, especially from Russia, and is strengthening its cybersecurity infrastructure.
Economy & industry
GDP: $213 billion (2023)
GDP per Capita: $4,800 (2023)
Main industries: Agriculture (especially grain production), manufacturing, metallurgy, chemical industry, energy, and information technology.
Unemployment Rate: Around 8.5% (2023)
Main exports: Cereals (mainly wheat), iron and steel, machinery, and chemicals.
Tourism Income: Tourism is an emerging sector in Ukraine, with growing numbers of visitors attracted to Kyiv, Lviv, and the Black Sea coast.
Ease of Doing Business Index: Ukraine has made improvements in its business environment but still faces challenges such as corruption and bureaucracy.
Agriculture: Ukraine is a leading global producer of grains, particularly wheat, and is known for its fertile soils and agricultural output.
Public Debt: The country has significant public debt, worsened by the ongoing conflict, but is pursuing economic reforms to stabilize the economy.
Trade: Ukraine’s key trading partners include the European Union, China, and Russia (though trade with Russia has been heavily affected by the ongoing conflict).
Energy: Ukraine relies on coal, nuclear, and increasingly renewable energy sources.
Poverty rate: The poverty rate remains high, particularly in the rural areas, but poverty reduction is a government priority.
Technology: Ukraine’s technology sector is rapidly growing, with a strong focus on IT services and startups.
Research & development: The country invests in R&D, particularly in the fields of agriculture, information technology, and aerospace.
Public finance: Ukraine faces fiscal challenges, but efforts are underway to streamline public spending and reduce deficits.
Society & demographics
Population (2025 estimate): 42 million
Age structure: 0-14 years (15%), 15-64 years (67%), 65+ years (18%)
Life expectancy: Men 66 years, Women 76 years
Human rights: Ukraine has made improvements in human rights, especially with regard to freedom of speech and democratic practices.
Crime rate: Ukraine struggles with organized crime, though crime rates have been improving, especially in major cities.
Happiness index: Ukraine faces economic difficulties, but its people have high levels of resilience and a strong sense of national pride.
Education ranking: Ukraine has a strong education system with a high literacy rate, but reform is ongoing, particularly in higher education.
Top universities: Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Lviv Polytechnic, Kharkiv National University
Healthcare system: Ukraine’s healthcare system faces challenges due to underfunding and inadequate infrastructure but is undergoing reforms.
Alcohol consumption: Alcohol consumption is common, with beer, vodka, and wine being popular beverages.
Public holidays: Major public holidays include New Year’s Day, Independence Day, Christmas (observed on January 7 by Orthodox Christians), and Easter.
Language: Ukrainian is the official language, but Russian is widely spoken, especially in the eastern and southern regions.
Literature: Ukraine has a rich literary tradition, with authors like Taras Shevchenko and Lesya Ukrainka shaping national identity.
Art & museums: Ukraine has a thriving arts scene, particularly in Kyiv and Lviv, with many museums celebrating its rich history and culture.
Music: Ukrainian music includes folk traditions, classical compositions, and modern pop and rock, with strong ties to national identity.
Sports: Football (soccer), basketball, and boxing are popular, with Ukraine excelling in international competitions.
Public holidays: Key public holidays include Independence Day, New Year’s Day, Easter, and Christmas.
Cuisine: Ukrainian cuisine features hearty dishes such as borscht, varenyky (dumplings), and holubtsi (stuffed cabbage rolls).
Wine & spirits: Ukraine has a long history of winemaking, particularly in the southern regions, along with a rich vodka culture.
Traditional clothing: Traditional Ukrainian costumes are worn during festivals, particularly in rural areas.
Military & security
Military expenditure: Ukraine has significantly increased its military budget in recent years due to the ongoing war with Russia.
Number of active personnel: Approximately 250,000 active military personnel, with a large reserve force.
International alliances: Ukraine has sought closer relations with NATO and the European Union, although it is not a NATO member.
Cybersecurity readiness: Ukraine has been targeted by cyberattacks and is investing in its cybersecurity infrastructure to defend against threats.
Defense strategy: Ukraine’s defense strategy is focused on territorial defense, bolstering its armed forces to resist external threats, particularly from Russia.
Defense budget: The defense budget has grown significantly due to the ongoing conflict in Eastern Ukraine and Crimea.
Security policy: Ukraine’s security policy focuses on national defense and sovereignty, with increasing cooperation with Western nations.
Technology & innovation
Internet penetration: Ukraine has high internet penetration, particularly in urban areas.
Tech industry: Ukraine is becoming a hub for IT outsourcing, with a growing number of startups, particularly in Kyiv and Lviv.
Innovation: Ukraine is investing in innovation, particularly in the IT and agricultural sectors, and has seen a rise in tech startups.
E-commerce: The e-commerce sector is growing rapidly, with more Ukrainians shopping online, especially for electronics, fashion, and groceries.
Digital government: The Ukrainian government has introduced several e-governance initiatives, including e-taxation and online public services.
Tech Startups: The tech startup ecosystem is growing, particularly in the IT, fintech, and AI sectors.
Mobile technology: Mobile phones are widely used, and Ukraine has a rapidly growing mobile internet market.
Smart cities: Ukraine is exploring smart city technologies in cities like Kyiv to improve public services and infrastructure.
Research & development: Ukraine invests in R&D, particularly in space, IT, and agriculture, with an increasing focus on innovation.
Official websites
Government: www.kmu.gov.ua
Tourism: www.ukraine.travel
