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Key Events in Ukrainian History

By billdolan14
  • New Set Up

    New Set Up

    Central Rada set up in Kiev following collapse of Russian Empire

  • Independence

    Ukraine declares independence.

  • Stalin Purge

    Mass executions and deportations as Stalin launches purge against intellectuals.

  • End of Soviet Rule

    Armed resistance to Soviet rule ends with defeat of Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA).

  • Neuclear Disaster

    A reactor at the Chernobyl nuclear power station explodes, sending a radioactive plume across Europe. Desperate efforts are made to contain the damaged reactor within a huge concrete cover. Many armed forces personnel die of radiation sickness.

  • Protests

    Student protests and hunger strikes bring down government of Vitaliy Masol.

  • New Independence

    Ukraine declares independence following attempted coup in Moscow: 90% vote for independence in nationwide referendum in December.

  • New Leader

    Presidential elections: Leonid Kuchma succeeds Leonid Kravchuk.

  • New Treaty

    Friendship treaty signed with Russia. Ukraine and Russia also reach agreement on the Black Sea fleet.

  • New War

    Russian parliament approves President Vladimir Putin's request to use Russian forces in Ukraine. The Ukrainian army adopts a state of alert. Ukraine's interim prime minister Arseniy Yatsenyuk accuses Russia of declaring war.