Thank's for this. It's been known for a very long time this region was a human trafficking hub. It's history goes way back.

The name 'Ukraine' comes from the word "ukraina", which means "borderland" and translates literally as "the borderlands". It has always been understood as a borderland region that was used quite frankly as a buffer between competing nations. This region was part of the Russian Empire having varying borders that existed from 1791 to 1917 to which permanent residency by Jews was allowed. It was called the Pale of Settlement. Beyond this Jewish residency, permanent or temporary, was mostly forbidden. Throughout history Ukraine has acted somewhat like a 'sacrificial metal' does to which trouble first rears its head.

When Putin said Ukraine was never a nation with borders, this is what he was referring to. Ukraine has been a place where bad actors are sent ridding governments of troublemakers. It really is a breeding ground for corruption.