Ukraine’s history spans centuries of cultural and political evolution. Emerging as Kievan Rus in the 9th century, it became a powerful medieval state and the cradle of Eastern Slavic civilization. Following Mongol invasions, it faced domination by Poland, Lithuania, and Russia. Despite centuries of struggle, including the Holodomor and Soviet rule, Ukraine’s resilient identity persisted. Gaining independence in 1991, modern Ukraine is shaped by its pursuit of sovereignty, democracy, and its resi