Ukraine has a temperate climate that becomes subtropical in the south. It gained independence in 1991 and has a population of around 46 million people comprised of Ukrainians and various ethnic minorities. Ukraine has a developed economy focused on metallurgy, machine-building, agriculture, and is rich in natural resources like iron ore, coal, and natural gas. It has a long history and culture reflected in its many historical sites, museums, and contributions to literature, art, and music.