what countries are in eastern europe

Daniel Parker

2 min read

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12-03-2025

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The definition of "Eastern Europe" is surprisingly fluid and often debated. Historically and geographically, it's a region that has shifted and changed over centuries. However, we can provide a generally accepted list of countries typically included, along with some context to understand the complexities involved. This article will answer the question, "What countries are in Eastern Europe?", providing clarity and historical background.

Defining Eastern Europe: A Historical Perspective

Defining Eastern Europe is tricky because it's less about strict geographical boundaries and more about historical, political, and cultural influences. The region has been at the center of major power struggles throughout history, influenced by the Byzantine Empire, the Ottoman Empire, the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and the Soviet Union. These influences have shaped the identities and borders of the nations within this region.

One common perspective divides Europe into Eastern and Western blocks, largely based on the Cold War division. This division, however, doesn't always neatly align with geography or cultural distinctions.

The Countries Typically Included in Eastern Europe

While the exact boundaries are debatable, the following countries are generally considered part of Eastern Europe:

• Belarus: A landlocked country bordering Russia, Ukraine, Poland, and Lithuania.
• Bulgaria: Located on the Balkan Peninsula, with Black Sea coastline.
• Czech Republic: A landlocked country in Central Europe, historically part of Czechoslovakia.
• Estonia: One of the Baltic states, bordering the Baltic Sea.
• Hungary: A landlocked country in Central Europe, with a rich history.
• Latvia: Another of the Baltic states, with a coastline on the Baltic Sea.
• Lithuania: The third Baltic state, also bordering the Baltic Sea.
• Moldova: A landlocked country bordering Ukraine and Romania.
• Poland: A large country bordering several other Eastern European nations.
• Romania: Located on the Balkan Peninsula, with Black Sea coastline.
• Russia (Western Part): While Russia is a vast country spanning Europe and Asia, its western portion is often considered part of Eastern Europe. This inclusion is frequently debated.
• Slovakia: A landlocked country in Central Europe, formerly part of Czechoslovakia.
• Ukraine: A large country bordering several Eastern European and other countries.

Countries Sometimes Included or Debated:

Several countries' inclusion in Eastern Europe is often debated depending on the criteria used:

• The Balkan States: Countries such as Serbia, North Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Kosovo, and Albania are sometimes included, particularly when considering historical and cultural factors. The Balkan region is often treated as a separate sub-region within Europe.

Understanding the Nuances

It's crucial to understand that this is not a rigid or universally agreed-upon list. Different scholars and geopolitical analysts may use different criteria. The perception of "Eastern Europe" is influenced by historical context, political affiliations, and cultural ties. The region is dynamic and its borders are far from fixed in the minds of those who live there and study it.

This article aims to provide a general overview of the countries typically included in the broader definition of Eastern Europe. Further research may offer diverse perspectives and a deeper understanding of this fascinating and complex region.