Explain Ukraine

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Is Gogol a Ukrainian or Russian writer?

The identity of Mykola (Nikolai) Gogol is complex. He was born in Ukraine’s Poltava region to a f...

Why are the colours of the Ukrainian flag blue and yellow?

The Ukrainian flag consists of two horizontal stripes: blue on top, yellow on the bottom. Both co...

What is worth reading from Ukrainian classical literature?

If you want to understand Ukraine — read Ukrainian literature.  Three key figures without whom it...

Who is one of the most famous contemporary Ukrainian artists?

One of the most famous contemporary Ukrainian artists is Ivan Marchuk. In 2007, he was included i...

Ukrainians as the “Younger Brothers” of Russians: Who Created This Myth and Why Does It Still Survive?

The myth of Ukrainians as the “younger brothers” of Russians emerged during the times of the Musc...

Which 5 Books Will Help You Better Understand Ukraine and Ukrainians?

To understand Ukraine and its people, it’s worth turning to literature that reflects the country’...

Why Do Students from Other Countries Choose Ukrainian Cities for Their Studies?

The first international students appeared in independent Ukraine back in the early 1990s. Since t...

What Types of Train Tickets Can You Buy in Ukraine?

In Ukraine, you can choose from several types of train tickets depending on your budget, comfort ...

How to Buy Train Tickets in Ukraine?

Ukraine has a well-developed railway network and train system. It’s one of the most convenient an...

Which museums in Kyiv are worth visiting?

Kyiv is the heart of Ukraine, a city rich in history and cultural heritage, where every museum op...

Why Is Ukraine Called a Melting Pot?

Today, during wartime, accusations are sometimes directed at Ukraine of nationalism or discrimina...

What is Surzhyk?

Surzhyk is a form of speech that blends elements of Ukrainian and Russian (the original meaning o...

Where Does "Carol of the Bells" Come From?

Arguably, the world's most famous Christmas song holds secrets in both its music and lyrics. Comp...

Why Does the Ukrainian Language Use the Russian Alphabet?

This question is fairly common: Why does the Ukrainian language use the Russian alphabet? The sho...

What’s the Most Unexpected Food You’ll Find in Ukraine?

Ukrainian food embraces simplicity, focusing on humble, hearty ingredients that are as nourishing...

Why Is Bread So Important in Ukrainian Culture?

I once had a casual conversation over some beers with a Greek coworker, and he puzzled me with a ...

How to Become Familiar with the History of Ukraine?

Understanding Ukraine's history is essential, as history often provides the key to making sense o...

Why "Rus" is not "Russia," and "Ruskyi" is not "Russian"?

In many languages, including English, the Ukrainian words "ruskyi" (a historical term) and "rosiy...