Ukraine (pronounced in Ukrainian UKRAYINA) is a country in south-eastern Europe, the second largest of the continent after Russia, and one of the most populous in Europe. Its history spans more than a thousand years. For several centuries it had stayed under Russia 's domination and regained independence in 1991. It is bordered by Belarus on the north, by Russia on the north, north-east, and east, by the Sea of Azov and the Black Sea on the south, by Moldova and Romania on the south-west, and by Hungary, Slovakia, and Poland on the west. The capital of Ukraine is Kiev.

Nation formed itself on the territory of contemporary Ukraine during thousands years. Historians found its roots in Tripolye culture, which existed on the lands of the Middle Dnipro in the 3rd millennium A.C., and also in the heritage of Scythians and in Chernyakhovsky monuments.

About 1100 years ago on the Ukrainian lands powerful medieval monarchy - Kiev Rus - spread out. Prince Vladimir II Monomach (1113-1125) was the last of Kiev princes, which starved for preservation of unity and might of Kiev Rus. The next sovereign state in the history of Ukrainian nation was of Zaporizka Sich one of the brightest periods in Ukrainian history. Ukraine got it's independence in 1991, August the 24 th .

Contemporary Ukraine is an independent European state; it is open for multifaceted collaboration with all interested states. It made a valuable contribution into strengthening of security and stability in European region. This is supported by political and economical transformations within the country, its participation in activity of international security systems, carrying out of peacemaking and humanitarian operations. Ukraine is a member of European Council and OSE and works actively on joining EC.

Official language is Ukrainian; Russian language is also widely spread in Ukraine. Deep original art of Ukraine absorbed traditions of many artistic cultures which changed one another at its territory. It is reflected in architecture and fine arts of Ukraine.

Sport is very beloved in Ukraine. Preference is given to light athletics, football, boxing, basketball, athletic and artistic gymnastics. Ukrainian football club "Dinamo" Kyiv, many times it was champion of the country, two times winner of the UEFA Cup.

Perhaps the most popular in Europe and all over the world today are I Ukrainian boxers, brothers Vitaliy and Vladimir Klichko, who burst swiftly into professional boxing. At their account there are many splendid, exciting fights, which gave great pleasure to admirers of boxing.