Ukraine
Ukraine, the second-largest country in Europe, is known for its Orthodox churches, Black Sea coastline, and forested mountains. Its capital, Kyiv, features the gold-domed St. Sophia's Cathedral, with 11th-century mosaics and frescoes. The nation has a rich cultural heritage, with roots tracing back to the medieval state of Kyivan Rus. Ukraine has faced significant challenges in its recent history, striving for political independence and sovereignty in the face of regional conflicts. The name Ukraine is thought to come from the Slavic word "ukraina," meaning "borderland" or "march," reflecting its historical position on the margins of powerful empires.
