Zelenskyy Urges Asia to Join Peace Summit in Surprise Manila Visit

In a significant and unannounced visit, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to urge Asian leaders to attend a Swiss-organized global peace summit on the war in Ukraine. The summit, scheduled for June 15-16, aims to address the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia.

Zelenskyy's visit to Manila followed his address at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, where he criticized China's role in allegedly helping Russia undermine the peace summit. He received a red-carpet welcome with military honors at the presidential palace before holding talks with Marcos, who pledged the Philippines' participation in the summit.

"I’m happy to hear today from you that you’ll participate in our peace steps," Zelenskyy told Marcos. "It’s a very strong signal."

Zelenskyy emphasized the need for more mental health workers for Ukrainian soldiers, and Marcos promised to help, welcoming Ukraine's decision to open an embassy in Manila this year to facilitate aid delivery.

The summit will focus on nuclear security, food security, and the return of abducted Ukrainian children from Russia. Zelenskyy also expressed disappointment that some nations, including the U.S., had not confirmed the participation of their leaders, although the U.S. committed to high-level representation.

At the security forum, Zelenskyy accused China of using its influence to pressure other countries not to attend the summit, stating, "Russia, using Chinese influence in the region, using Chinese diplomats also, does everything to disrupt the peace summit."

China has maintained what it calls a neutral position on the war, but its trade with Russia has increased, raising concerns about its indirect support for Russia's military efforts.

The visit highlights the geopolitical complexities and the urgent need for international cooperation to end the conflict. Join us as we explore Zelenskyy's strategic visit, the responses from regional leaders, and the implications for the upcoming peace summit.

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