Through nearly four years of unspeakable devastation, constant attacks, and burials of loved ones, the people of Ukraine have managed to retain their humanity, their reverence for the country’s history and culture . . . and, apparently, their sense of humor.

This composite photograph appeared in a Facebook post yesterday. Looking at the top picture, I thought I recognized the fine hand of one of the region’s most revered painters, the late Ukrainian-Russian Ilya Repin (1844-1930). A search revealed that it is indeed one of his works, titled “Reply of the Zaporozhian Cossacks” — such a fitting tribute to the people of today’s Zaporizhzhia, one of the regions so horribly decimated by Russia’s relentless assaults.

(And though I’m not absolutely certain of the reason for the difference in spelling, the likelihood is that the old name was the Russian-language version and the current spelling is Ukrainian. Please feel free to correct me if I’m mistaken.)

Just look at that reenactment by Ukrainian soldiers in a rare moment of rest. It’s perfect, from the bald guy leaning back from the table at bottom right, to the soldier with the bandaged head at center rear, to the arm sticking up from the crowd next to him.

The modern interpretation is most likely AI-created; it’s hard to tell these days. But however it was done, it’s pure genius. And it speaks to the unflagging spirit of the people of a nation under siege . . . a people who love their country and its ancient history, and who refuse to give in to the Russian tyrant.

Слава Украiнi! Glory to Ukraine!

Just sayin’ . . .

Brendochka
11/30/25