Ukraine vs. THE Ukraine

[Marion Du]

Hello everyone,

I have heard this European country being referred to as THE Ukraine very often. Still, when it sadly made the news lately, it was called simply Ukraine.

I've researched the internet to find the reason why...with no luck.

Does anyone know when to use the article in front of Ukraine, and, more importantly, why?

Thanks a lot!

Marion

 

[Rover_KE]

Welcome to the forums, Marion.

The form "the Ukraine" was once usual in English. Since the Declaration of Independence of Ukraine, the English-speaking world has largely stopped using the article.

(Wikipedia)

You will continue to read and hear both versions for many years yet.

 

[Marion Du]

Thanks a lot, Rover :-D

 

[Rover_KE]

Your appreciation is welcome, Marion, but there is no need to write a new post to say thank you or to quote our replies back to us. Simply click the Thank button on any posts you find helpful. It means that we don't have to open the thread again to read your new post and then find that it doesn't include any new information or an additional question.​

 

[Tdol]

Does anyone know when to use the article in front of Ukraine, and, more importantly, why?

If it's not natural to add it, then I would say don't do it. I grew up with the article and am trying to drop it; it wasn't an independent country then, it is now, but old habits die hard.