Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy highlighted similarities between Ukraine’s conflict with Russia and the Philippines’ maritime territorial dispute with China, which makes sense for both Kyiv and Manila to unite in facing global challenges.
Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of solidarity in a recent interview with GMA News. “There are a lot of similar things and…challenges. That’s why we spoke with the President that now we need unity,” he said, referring to his recent meeting with President Marcos in Malacañang on Monday.
Zelenskyy warned of broader implications if Ukraine falls to Russian occupation. “If Russia will occupy us totally… we will see this war in other continents… And it’s a big tragedy,” he noted.
The Ukrainian leader visited Manila to invite President Marcos to a peace summit in Switzerland this month.
During their meeting, they discussed bilateral cooperation, particularly in agricultural exports. Zelenskyy also requested Filipino mental health workers to assist in Ukraine, a request to which the Philippines agreed.
Zelenskyy said many people in his country need help psychologically as the consequences of war takes its toll on their soldiers and civilians, who are struggling to reintegrate with their families.
When asked what lessons the Philippines could learn from Ukraine’s experience, Zelenskyy stressed the power of unity. “The world saw the resilience of our people… Of course, we wish you only peace, but you have to be ready and to think about defending (your country),” he said.
Zelenskyy credited Ukraine’s strength to its moral stance.
The Philippines has expressed support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, voting at the UN General Assembly to denounce Russia’s invasion.
Zelenskyy acknowledged this support, saying, “Ukraine will never forget which side you are [on] historically… You are on the side of truth…and peace, and that’s very important.” Consequently, Ukraine will also stand with the Philippines amid any challenges.
Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, under the pretext of a “special military operation” to “de-Nazify” the country. According to the United Nations, the war has inflicted immense suffering on millions.
