Social unrest continues to divide Ukraine

Since November 2013, Ukraine – a former Soviet republic has experienced political turmoil. The social unrest is the result of ousted Ukrainian President Viktor F. Yanukovych’s decision to reject a trade deal with the European Union.  Instead, Yanukovych chose closer economic ties with Russia.  Yanukovych’s decision to increase Ukraine’s economic relationship with Russia instead of the EU has infuriated millions of Ukrainians.

Consequently, thousands of protesters have stormed Independence Square in the Ukrainian capital city of Kiev.  The clashes between Ukrainian government security forces and protesters have led to hundreds of injuries and over 75 deaths.
In 1991, Ukraine gained its independence after the collapse of the Soviet Union.  In terms of land area, Ukraine is the second largest country in Europe.  Ukraine depends heavily on Russia to supply the country’s energy needs.  Now that the Russian military is taking a more active role in suppressing the social unrest in Ukraine, the U.S. and the EU are paying close attention to the situation in the divided country.  

Facts about Ukraine:
Population: 44,573,205 (July 2013)
Area: 233,090 sq. miles (Slightly smaller than Texas)
Capital: Kiev
GDP – per capita: $7,400 (2013, in U.S. dollars)
Official Language: Ukrainian (official), Russian
Major Religion: Christianity
Sources: www.bbc.com, www.cia.gov, New York Times

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