Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jnr’s vocal support for Ukraine amid Russia’s invasion has drawn mixed reactions, with observers divided over whether it signals a principled stand over shared values ​​or calculated deference to US influence in the region.

Marking the 1,000th day since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine began on Wednesday, Marcos Jnr posted a message on his official social media recalling the June 3 meeting with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky and reiterating the Philippines’ “unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty”. , independence, unity and territorial integrity”.

“It is our hope that we will see a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine. Ukraine is our valued partner, and our relations continue to go from strength to strength,” he added.

While the post received some supportive comments, a number of users criticized the president for involving the country in a far-off war, accusing him of being a “lapdog” and “weak.”

Jonathan Malaya, Deputy Director-General and Official Spokesman of the National Security Council, framed the president’s remarks as a continuation of existing policies. “President Marcos Jnr just reiterated the country’s support for Ukraine,” he told This Week in Asia on Thursday.