How long has Ukraine existed?

Ukraine is a country located in Eastern Europe that has a rich history dating back to the 9th century. The earliest known state in the region was the state of Kievan Rus, which was founded in the 9th century and lasted until the 13th century. During this time, the region was a center of trade and culture and played a significant role in the development of Eastern Slavic civilization.

In the 13th century, the Mongol invasions caused the fragmentation of the Kievan Rus, leading to the formation of several smaller principalities. Over the centuries, the region was ruled by various powers, including Lithuania, Poland, and the Ottoman Empire. In the late 18th century, much of the territory of modern-day Ukraine became part of the Russian Empire.

After the collapse of the Russian Empire in 1917, Ukraine declared independence, but it was short-lived as the country was occupied by Soviet forces during the Russian Civil War. Ukraine became a republic within the Soviet Union and remained so until the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. Since then, Ukraine has been an independent state and has faced numerous challenges, including political instability, economic difficulties, and conflict with Russia.