Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky spoke with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Thursday to discuss areas of cooperation between Manila and Kyiv.

In a social media post, Zelensky first expressed his sympathies over the devastating storms that have hit the Philippines in recent months.

“I spoke with the President of the Philippines, @bongbongmarcos. I expressed condolences to the President for the lives lost and the destruction caused by the typhoons,” he said.

Zelensky also updated Marcos on Ukraine’s coordination with the White House to secure peace amid the ongoing conflict with Russia.

“I am grateful for the Philippines’ support for the peace efforts, for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and for the clear stance,” he noted.

The Philippines has repeatedly called for peace in the region and expressed support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence, unity, and territorial integrity.

During the call, the two leaders discussed potential cooperation on food security, agriculture, and digitalization. Zelensky said the Philippines raised interest in Ukrainian expertise and technologies, signaling a possible future partnership.

“We agreed that our teams will follow up on all these matters in the near future,” he added.

Zelensky last visited the Philippines in 2024, meeting Marcos in Malacañang, where he announced Ukraine’s plans to establish an embassy in Manila — a move welcomed by the Philippine government.

Manila and Kyiv have maintained diplomatic relations for 33 years, dating back to April 1992.