On a state visit to Mongolia, Russian President Vladimir Putin was greeted by a customary parade of elite troops... except these mounted warriors looked like they were about to ride west and conquer Rus’ at Genghis Khan’s call.

Ask anyone on the street what they know about Mongolia, and you’ll hear ‘Genghis Khan.’ In the 21st century, Mongolia seems more than happy to embrace the legacy of the 13th-century warlord emperor – and show it off to the visiting Russian leader.

As he approached the presidential palace in the capital Ulaanbaatar, Putin was greeted by a line of horsemen who looked like they just rode off the page of an old Rus’ chronicle – clad in leather armor and tasseled helmets, sitting atop short stocky mounts – one battle-horn blare away from triggering a Kulikovo Battle flashback for anyone familiar with medieval Russian history.

Putin didn’t seem to mind, though – especially since the fearsome display was followed by a bouquet of flowers.

If you like this story, share it with a friend!