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About our Mission Field

The countries in East-Central Europe have a rich and long history. They also have a fascinating and unique culture. Here are some interesting things you may not have known about Ukraine and Belarus. We've included links where you can learn more about each country (note: information on Poland coming soon).

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UKRAINE

INTERESTING FACTS

  • For the first time since 1991, when Ukraine gained independence from the Soviet Union, its sovereignty is being threatened by Russia. 

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  • The country of Ukraine is the second-largest country in Europe after Russia. It has an area of 603,628 km² (233,062 mi²)

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  • The geographic centre of Europe is within the boundary of Ukraine

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  • Ukraine is bisected by the large Dniepr River running north to south, emptying into the Black Sea

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  • Ukraine’s government has both a president and a prime minister

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  • Ukraine is one of the largest exporters of grain in the world

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  • The national currency of Ukraine is called the Hryvnia

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  • Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, is one of the oldest cities in Europe, predating the existence of the countries of Ukraine and Russia. It has a population of 2.8 million (2013)

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  • Khreshchatyk Street in Kyiv has the shortest yet widest main city street in the world. Its length is 1.2 km

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  • Kyiv has the deepest metro station in the world

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  • Kyiv is home to numerous beautiful Orthodox cathedrals

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  • The Ukrainian language uses the Cyrillic alphabet. Most Ukrainians in the east and central Ukraine speak Russian

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  • Milla Jovovich, Hollywood actress, and supermodel was born in Kyiv, Ukraine

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  • Mila Kunis, a Jewish actress, was born in Chernivtsi, Ukraine

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  • Ukrainians wear their wedding rings on their right hand instead of their left

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