Eastern Ukraine
Eastern Ukraine refers to a region in Ukraine that includes parts of the Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts, as well as portions of other neighboring regions. This area has a significant industrial base and is home to a large portion of Ukraine's Russian-speaking population. Historically, Eastern Ukraine has been an area of economic activity due to its resources, including coal and heavy industry. In terms of geopolitics, Eastern Ukraine has been a focal point of conflict, especially since 2014, when Russia annexed Crimea and tensions escalated with armed conflicts involving separatist movements supported by Russia. The term "Eastern Ukraine" often carries political implications, reflecting the cultural and linguistic diversity within the country as well as the ongoing disputes over territorial integrity and national identity.