**Cultural Resilience: A New Image of Ukrainian Identity Amidst War**

Amidst the war with Russia, a photograph showing modern Ukrainian soldiers reimagining a historical painting has ignited a cultural conversation about heritage and identity.

In a striking juxtaposition of past and present, French photographer Émeric Lhuisset captured an evocative photograph that reinterprets a renowned 19th-century painting of Cossack warriors, placing modern Ukrainian soldiers at the forefront. This visual representation emerges at a time when Ukraine is fervently defending its cultural identity during the ongoing conflict with Russia, which began almost three years ago.

The photograph, which displays soldiers in casual moments—smoking, playing cards, and enjoying food—is a departure from the usual battlefield imagery associated with the war. Unlike somber depictions of combat and suffering, Lhuisset’s work radiates warmth and camaraderie, making it resonate deeply among Ukrainians. Its widespread sharing on social media reflects a collective yearning for a clear identity amidst the chaos of war.

The original painting by Illia Repin, an artist from what is today Ukraine, has been claimed by both Ukraine and Russia as part of their respective cultural heritages. Both nations view the Cossacks as part of their national narrative, turning this artwork into a focal point of the cultural clash intensified by the invasion.

Recently, the photograph was exhibited in Kyiv, garnering significant praise from government officials who believe it profoundly represents the ongoing struggle to reclaim Ukraine’s narrative against Russian assertions that the country lacks a coherent identity.

As Ukraine continues to define itself on the global stage, the image stands as a testament to the resilience of its cultural spirit amid adversity. The blending of historical legacy with modern valor illustrates a powerful commitment to honoring the past while fighting for the future.