Ukraine Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

Ukraine, State of Eastern Europe; 603,700 km², 44.6 million residents (2019).Ukraine borders Belarus in the north, the Russian Federation in the north and east, Poland, Slovakia and Hungary in the west, and Romania and Moldova in the southwest. Furthermore, the country has a coast towards the Black Sea to the south. The capital is Kiev (2.9 million residents, 2015).

Country facts

Ukraine / Ukraine
Country abbreviation: UA
Area: 603 700 km²
Population (2019): 44.6 million residents
Capital: Kiev
Main language: Ukrainian
State: Republic
Head of State: Volodymyr Zelenskyj (President)
Head of Government: Denys Sjmygal
Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 3 095
GNI per capita (2018): US $ 2,660
Currency unit: 1 hryvnia = 100 kopecks
Currency code: UAH
Country number (telephony): 380
Internet domain name: ua
Time difference compared to Sweden: +1
National Day: August 24 (Independence Day, 1991)

Nature

Land use: forest (17%), agricultural land (57%), other (26%)
Highest mountain: Hoverla (2,058 m above sea level)
Longest river: Dnieper (2 280 km)

Population

Population density (2019): 74 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): –0.6%; birthrate 8 ‰, deathrate 14 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (15%), 15-64 (68%), 65- (17%)
Life expectancy (2019): men 67 years, women 77 years
Infant mortality (2019): 7 per 1,000 live births
Population forecast 2050: 34 million residents
HDI (2017): 0.751 (place 88 of 189)
Urbanization rate (2019): 69%
Most populous cities (2015): Kiev (2.9 million residents), Kharkiv (1.4 million), Dnipro (989,800)

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (12%), industry (29%), service (59%)
Exports (2017): US $ 39,690 million
Main export products: metal, fuel, chemicals
Main exporting countries: Russian Federation, Poland, Turkey
Imports (2017): US $ 49,060 million
Main import products: energy, machinery, chemicals
Main importing countries: Russian Federation, China, Germany
Railway network (2014): 20 700 km

Geography of Ukraine

Location

Ukraine is located in Eastern Europe, bordered by Belarus to the north, Russia to the northeast and east, the Black Sea to the south, and the Sea of Azov to the southeast. It is also bordered by Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary to the west, and Romania and Moldova to the southwest. The country has an area of about 603,550 square kilometers (233,000 square miles), making it the largest country entirely within Europe. Its strategic location has historically made Ukraine a bridge between Europe and Asia, playing a significant role in the region’s geopolitical landscape.

Topography

Ukraine’s topography is predominantly characterized by fertile plains and lowlands, with the majority of the country being part of the Eurasian Steppe. The country’s land is mostly flat, with rolling hills and a few mountain ranges in the west and south. The Carpathian Mountains, located in the southwest near the borders with Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary, are the highest in Ukraine, with the highest peak being Mount Hoverla at 2,061 meters (6,762 feet). These mountains are home to various natural reserves and are popular for hiking and winter sports.

The eastern part of Ukraine is part of the vast Russian Plain, and it is home to extensive plains, including the Donets Ridge. The Crimean Peninsula, situated on the Black Sea, is also an important part of Ukraine’s topography, characterized by a mix of mountainous and flat terrains, with the Crimean Mountains running along the southern edge of the peninsula. Ukraine’s extensive river systems, particularly the Dnieper River, which flows through the center of the country, play a crucial role in transportation, agriculture, and industry.

Natural Resources

Ukraine is rich in natural resources, which have historically been an important part of its economy. The country is known for its fertile soils, particularly in the central and southern regions, which are ideal for agriculture. The fertile black soil, known as chernozem, is one of the most productive soil types in the world. Ukraine is one of the largest agricultural producers in Europe, with a strong output of grains, including wheat, corn, and barley, as well as vegetables and fruits.

The country also possesses significant mineral resources, including iron ore, coal, manganese, and titanium. The Donbas region in eastern Ukraine is particularly known for its extensive coal deposits, while the country is also one of the world’s largest producers of iron ore. Additionally, Ukraine has substantial deposits of natural gas and petroleum, although the country has become increasingly reliant on imports for its energy needs.

Climate of Ukraine

General Climate

Ukraine experiences a temperate continental climate, with distinct seasonal changes. Winters are generally cold, with temperatures often dipping below freezing, particularly in the northern and eastern parts of the country. The southern regions, particularly along the Black Sea coast, have milder winters, with more moderate temperatures. Summers are typically hot, with temperatures in the central and southern regions often exceeding 30°C (86°F). In the eastern parts of the country, temperatures can be even higher during the peak of summer.

The climate varies significantly from region to region, due to Ukraine’s size and geography. The northern regions experience a more continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. The southern coastal regions, including the Crimean Peninsula, have a more Mediterranean influence, with warmer temperatures and a higher level of precipitation. The western parts of the country, especially the Carpathian Mountains, have a more moderate climate, with cooler temperatures and more rainfall.

Rainfall Patterns

Rainfall in Ukraine is uneven, with the western regions receiving more precipitation than the east. The Carpathian Mountains and the foothills receive the most rainfall, while the central and southern plains are drier. The average annual rainfall ranges from 400 to 1,000 millimeters (16 to 39 inches), with the highest rainfall occurring in the spring and early summer. In contrast, the summer months, particularly in the south, can experience dry spells, leading to drought conditions in some areas.

Ukraine’s climate is influenced by several factors, including its proximity to the Black Sea and the prevailing westerly winds from Europe. The country is occasionally affected by severe weather conditions, such as heavy snowstorms in the winter and droughts in the summer, both of which can have significant impacts on agriculture.

People of Ukraine

Population and Ethnic Composition

Ukraine has a population of approximately 41 million people, making it one of the most populous countries in Europe. The population is ethnically diverse, although the majority of the population is ethnically Ukrainian, constituting around 77% of the population. The country also has significant minority populations, with ethnic Russians comprising about 17% of the population, particularly concentrated in the eastern and southern regions of the country, including Crimea.

Other minority groups include Crimean Tatars, Belarusians, Moldovans, Bulgarians, Poles, and Jews, among others. The diverse ethnic composition of Ukraine reflects the complex historical and cultural influences from various neighboring countries. The presence of multiple ethnic groups has played a role in shaping the cultural and social dynamics of the country.

Language

Ukrainian is the official language of Ukraine, and it is spoken by the vast majority of the population. Ukrainian is a Slavic language that uses the Cyrillic alphabet, and it shares similarities with other East Slavic languages like Russian and Belarusian. While Ukrainian is the official language, Russian is also widely spoken, especially in the eastern and southern regions, where many ethnic Russians live. In some areas, particularly in major cities like Kyiv and Lviv, Ukrainian is more commonly used in public life, including government, education, and media.

In addition to Ukrainian and Russian, there are several minority languages spoken throughout the country, including Crimean Tatar, Romanian, Hungarian, and Polish. The country’s linguistic diversity is a reflection of its varied ethnic makeup and historical connections with neighboring countries.

Religion

The majority of Ukrainians are Christian, with the predominant religion being Eastern Orthodox Christianity. The Ukrainian Orthodox Church is divided into several branches, the largest being the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the Kyiv Patriarchate, followed by the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the Moscow Patriarchate, which maintains ties with the Russian Orthodox Church. In addition to the Orthodox population, there is a significant Catholic community, particularly among the ethnic Poles and Ukrainians in the western regions. The Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, which follows the Eastern Rite but is in communion with the Pope, is the largest Catholic denomination in the country.

Other religious groups in Ukraine include Protestants, Jews, and Muslims, particularly the Crimean Tatars, who are predominantly Muslim. Despite the historical dominance of Orthodox Christianity, Ukraine has a relatively high level of religious diversity and freedom, with a variety of religious communities contributing to the country’s cultural identity.

Economy of Ukraine

Economic Structure

Ukraine’s economy is diverse, with significant contributions from agriculture, industry, and services. Historically, the country has been known as the “breadbasket of Europe” due to its fertile agricultural land, particularly in the central and southern parts. Agriculture remains an important sector, and Ukraine is one of the world’s largest producers and exporters of grain, especially wheat and corn.

In addition to agriculture, Ukraine has a well-established industrial base, particularly in steel, coal, and machinery production. The Donbas region in the east of the country is known for its coal mining and heavy industry, although these sectors have faced challenges in recent years due to political instability and economic transition. The Ukrainian economy is also supported by the growing services sector, including information technology, telecommunications, and tourism.

Industry and Manufacturing

Ukraine has a significant industrial sector, particularly in the areas of heavy industry, manufacturing, and energy production. The country is a leading producer of steel and has a large metallurgical industry, especially in the eastern region. Coal mining is another important industry, though it has been in decline due to the exhaustion of easy-to-reach reserves and the shift toward cleaner energy sources. Ukraine is also known for its aerospace and defense industries, producing aircraft, missiles, and military equipment.

The country has made efforts to modernize its industries and shift from heavy manufacturing to high-tech industries. The IT sector has shown significant growth, and Ukraine is becoming a hub for software development, especially in cities like Kyiv, Lviv, and Kharkiv. The growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and the digital economy is contributing to the diversification of Ukraine’s industrial base.

Agriculture

Agriculture remains one of the most important sectors of the Ukrainian economy, with the country being one of the world’s largest producers of grains, including wheat, corn, and barley. Ukraine is also a major exporter of sunflower oil, and its fertile black soil makes it ideal for cultivating a wide range of crops, including vegetables, fruits, and legumes. Livestock farming is less prominent than crop production but still includes pork, poultry, and dairy products.

Despite the country’s agricultural strength, the sector has faced challenges due to outdated infrastructure, political instability, and environmental issues. However, recent reforms and the opening of new international markets have helped Ukraine remain a key player in global agriculture. Ukraine’s position as a major exporter of agricultural products is critical to its economic recovery and future growth.

Government of Ukraine

Political System

Ukraine is a unitary republic with a semi-presidential system, meaning that both the president and the prime minister share executive powers. The president is the head of state and is elected by popular vote for a five-year term, with significant powers over foreign policy, defense, and national security. The prime minister, appointed by the president and approved by the Verkhovna Rada (the Ukrainian parliament), is the head of government and is responsible for domestic policy and the functioning of the cabinet.

Ukraine’s legislature, the Verkhovna Rada, is a unicameral body with 450 deputies elected for five-year terms. The parliament plays an important role in shaping national legislation and approving the government’s budget. Ukraine is divided into 24 oblasts (regions), each governed by a local administration that is responsible for regional governance and development.

Political History

Ukraine has a long and complex political history, shaped by its strategic location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. The country has been under the control of various empires and states, including the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, the Russian Empire, and the Soviet Union. Ukraine declared independence in 1917 during the Russian Revolution, but it was incorporated into the Soviet Union in 1922. The 20th century was marked by significant challenges, including the Holodomor famine in the 1930s, which resulted in millions of deaths.

Ukraine gained independence once again in 1991 after the collapse of the Soviet Union. The subsequent years saw a struggle between pro-European and pro-Russian factions, leading to political instability and frequent changes in leadership. The 2004 Orange Revolution, a series of protests against election fraud, brought pro-Western leadership to power, while the 2014 Euromaidan Revolution ousted pro-Russian President Viktor Yanukovych and led to a shift towards closer ties with the European Union.

Governance Challenges

Ukraine faces several governance challenges, including political corruption, ongoing territorial disputes, and economic struggles. The annexation of Crimea by Russia in 2014 and the ongoing conflict in eastern Ukraine, particularly in the Donbas region, have destabilized the country. Ukraine has received support from Western countries, including financial aid and military assistance, but the conflict has resulted in significant losses and hindered economic development.

Reform efforts have been slow, and corruption remains a persistent issue at various levels of government. However, there have been notable improvements in areas such as transparency and anti-corruption efforts, with the establishment of institutions like the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU).

Culture of Ukraine

Traditional Music and Dance

Ukrainian music is deeply rooted in the country’s history and reflects its cultural diversity. Folk music is a vital part of Ukrainian culture, with regional variations in style, instruments, and melodies. Traditional instruments such as the bandura, a stringed instrument similar to a lute, and the kobza, a type of lute, are commonly used in Ukrainian music. Ukrainian folk songs often tell stories of love, nature, and historical events, with distinctive harmonies and rhythms.

Dance is also an important cultural expression, with styles such as the hopak, a traditional Cossack dance known for its energetic movements and acrobatic jumps. Ukrainian dance is an important part of festivals and celebrations, showcasing the country’s cultural heritage.

Art and Craft

Ukrainian art is diverse, with a rich tradition of painting, sculpture, and decorative arts. Folk art, including embroidery, weaving, and pottery, plays an essential role in Ukrainian culture. Petrykivka painting, a distinctive style of floral art, is one of the most famous forms of Ukrainian folk art and has been recognized by UNESCO as part of the world’s intangible cultural heritage.

Ukrainian art has also been influenced by both Eastern European and Western traditions, with notable figures like the painter Kazimir Malevich and sculptor Alexander Archipenko contributing to modern art movements in the 20th century.

Cuisine

Ukrainian cuisine is hearty and rich, with influences from both Eastern Europe and Central Asia. The staple foods of Ukrainian cuisine include borscht, a beet-based soup often served with sour cream, pierogi (dumplings filled with various ingredients such as potatoes, cheese, or meat), and holubtsi (stuffed cabbage rolls). Kholodets, a dish made from jellied meat, and salo, cured pork fat, are also traditional foods in Ukrainian households.

Ukrainian cuisine places a strong emphasis on locally sourced ingredients such as grains, vegetables, and meats, and meals are often served with hearty breads and fermented beverages like kvass. The country’s agricultural traditions contribute to a cuisine that is seasonal and connected to the land.

Festivals and Celebrations

Ukraine celebrates numerous festivals throughout the year, with religious and cultural events marking important moments in the country’s history and traditions. Independence Day (August 24) is one of the most significant national holidays, commemorating Ukraine’s independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. Christmas and Easter are widely celebrated, with traditional customs such as Easter egg painting and Christmas caroling.

The Kupala Night (celebrated on the summer solstice) is another important festival, with pagan roots, featuring bonfires, singing, and dancing. Ivan Kupala celebrates the summer solstice and the power of water and fire in Ukrainian folk traditions. Each region of Ukraine also has its own local festivals celebrating food, music, and dance, reflecting the country’s diverse cultural heritage.