Beginning with civil unrest in Ukraine resulting from the desire of citizens to foster closer relations with Western countries, Russia has taken the opportunity to re-integrate ethnic Russian enclaves.

Use these PBS NewsHour videos and Support Materials to update your students on the situation in Ukraine and provide them the background they need to understand the political dynamics of the region. 

The Teacher’s Guide below provides background information, discussion questions, and writing prompts on the tensions over Crimea. Additionally, use the Map of Europe Student Worksheet in conjunction with the Geography Extension Activity to help students familiarize themselves with the geography of Europe.