One day Volodymyr the Great and Volodymyr Zelenskyy met at a briefing.

“Congratulations, gentlemen. My name is Volodymyr, and I represent the interests of a brave and indomitable state in Eastern Europe…”

“Of Ukraine, Mr. President?”

“Right! Wait… Who are you, sir? And how do you know me?”

“My name is Volodymyr as well. Volodymyr the Great. Once upon a time, I also was the head of Ukraine. I baptized Ukrainians and built many schools. You could read about me in history textbooks and see monuments to me in Ukrainian cities.”

“What?! Volodymyr the Great personally has come to our briefing?! I am shocked, but at the same time happy to welcome you here. You must be aware of the war we are currently going through?”

“Of course, sir. These times are reminding me of Kyivan Rus, which also had to fight off enemies.”

“Well, it seems their rotten souls haven’t changed over such a long period of time… I also have read that during your reign our state was almost the strongest among all medieval states. Maybe you can tell us how to restrain and defeat them?”

“Oh, unfortunately, there is no single recipe. However, there is one thing that will help you not to despair and patiently go to victory. This is your unity. I am very touched by your humanity and care that I observe during the invasion. Do not lose this and together with our brave people you will remain in history for all times as I did. Besides, dont forget about Ukrainian cuisine, its sacred. Every Ukrainian soldier should have a chunk of salo, a head of garlic and a plate of borsht…”

“How about Ukrainian ham kovbasa?” Volodymyr Zelenskyy got interested.

“It is optional, however, desirable.” On reflection, Volodymyr the Great added, “Ukrainian music is also important, I heard some present day songs about Hawks, Vrazhe, Chornobaivka-a-a, not so bad. But older songs are better, I think…”

“I see what you mean, we`ll work in this direction, something in a Shchedryk style,” Volodymyr Zelenskyy made a note in his diary.

“Yes. And now it’s time for me to go. I left my contacts to your advisors, so if you need any help, I’m always in touch! At first, you are to say the Lord`s Prayer, and after that to address directly to me.”

“Is there some code word?”

“Yes, The Sun Serene!”

“Thank you, I was really glad to see you at this briefing,” Volodymyr Zelenskyy shook the hand of Volodymyr the Great and went to his Presidential entourage, while the Volodymyr the Great crossed himself and just disappeared crooning softly, “Chornobaivka-a-a, Chornobaivka-a-a…”