Regular visitor to Travel Between The Pages know that I have a healthy obsession with maps. In my humble opinion, it’s impossible to truly understand the world without well drawn maps to guide the way. Throughout the current crisis in Europe created by Russia’s brutal and unprovoked invasion it’s been clear that many people lack even a basic grasp of the geography of the region. The map above, which was created by Nick Routley, can be very useful in visualizing the situation.

The modern Ukrainian nation was re-established on August 24, 1991 when it withdrew from the Soviet Union.

Here are a few key facts about the country:

• Population: 43,467,779 ; 8th largest in Europe and slightly larger than Poland
• GDP (PPP): $622 billion (roughly the same as Sweden or Austria)
• GDP (PPP) per capita: $15,124 (similar to Brazil)
• Capital (and largest city): Kyiv (or Kiev), population 2.96 million (slightly larger than Rome)
• Ethnic groups: 78% Ukraine, 17% Russian, 5% other
• Area: 603,628 km2 (233,062 sq mi) (slightly larger than France)
• Population density: 73.8/km2 (191.1/sq mi) (similar to Ireland)
• Currency: Hryvnia (₴) (UAH)
• Longest River: Dnieper (4th longest in Europe)
• Highest Peak: Mount Hoverla 2,061 metres (6,762 ft)