Ukraine is a country located in Eastern Europe. It is bordered by Belarus to the north, Russia to the north and east, and several countries to the west including Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, and Romania. To the south, it has a coastline along the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov. Ukraine is the largest country entirely within Europe and has a rich cultural heritage, with a history shaped by various influences and conflicts. The capital of Ukraine is Kyiv, which is one of the oldest cities in Eastern Europe. The country gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991 and has since been engaged in efforts to build a democratic society and establish a market economy. Ukraine is known for its diverse landscapes, including plains, mountains, and rivers, as well as its agricultural productivity, particularly in grain and sunflower oil. The official language is Ukrainian, and the country has a significant Russian-speaking minority. Ukraine has faced numerous geopolitical challenges, particularly with Russia, especially evident in the ongoing conflict that began in 2014 over Crimea and tensions in eastern regions. The nation has a vibrant cultural scene, with traditions in music, art, and folk customs.
Hirono Yoshida, the principal guest conductor of the Odessa National Opera, exemplifies courage and solidarity in war-stricken Ukraine, using music as a beacon of hope. Yoshida's February visit to Odessa…