The second largest country in Europe, Ukraine is mostly a broad, flat plain. At 233,090 square miles (603,700 sq km), Ukraine is slightly smaller than Texas and has an estimated population of 48.3 million. Over 73% are ethnic Ukrainians, while Russians represent the largest minority, at 22%. The capital and largest city is Kyiv (Kiev).
Mountains are found only in the west (the Carpathians), and in the Crimean Peninsula in the extreme south. Deer, beaver, marten, vultures, and the steppe eagle are among the wildlife found in Ukraine.
In the fertile soil of the central and southern regions, agriculture is a top industry, producing wheat, sugar beets, potatoes, beef, milk, vegetables, and sunflower seeds. Other industry is based on the country's rich mineral resources, including coal, iron ore, manganese, bauxite, and salt.
Odessa and Sevastopol are Ukraine's largest ports on the Black Sea.
