KYIV, Ukraine (AP) - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy embarked on his first-ever trip to Latin America on Sunday, traveling to Buenos Aires to witness the swearing-in of Argentina's new president, Javier Milei. The visit comes as Kyiv seeks to garner support from developing nations for its ongoing fight against Russia's invading forces.

Upon his arrival in Buenos Aires, President Zelenskyy was warmly welcomed by President Milei at the presidential palace. The two leaders shared an extended hug and exchanged words before President Milei, who expressed his intention to convert to Judaism, presented President Zelenskyy with a menorah as a gift. Later in the day, they were expected to have a comprehensive one-on-one meeting.

President Milei, a political outsider who campaigned against entrenched official corruption in Argentina, ran on a pro-Western foreign policy platform, expressing his distrust of Moscow and Beijing. President Zelenskyy expressed his gratitude to President Milei for his clear support for Ukraine, emphasizing its significance to the Ukrainian people.

In a phone call between the two leaders shortly after President Milei's electoral victory, President Milei's office announced that he had offered to host a summit between Ukraine and Latin American countries. This move could provide a significant boost to Kyiv's ongoing efforts to strengthen its relationships with countries in the global south.

During his visit to Argentina, President Zelenskyy also seized the opportunity to meet with several leaders from developing countries. On his way to Buenos Aires, he met with the prime minister of Cape Verde, Ulisses Correia e Silva. Then, in Argentina, he held separate meetings with the presidents of Paraguay, Ecuador, and Uruguay, according to his office.

"The support and strong united voice of Latin American countries that stand with the people of Ukraine in the war for our freedom and democracy is very important for us," President Zelenskyy said in a statement underscoring the significance of this visit.

Furthermore, President Zelenskyy had a phone conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron, during which they discussed the next defense package from France. This package aims to significantly enhance Ukraine's firepower and address the country's current armament needs, according to President Zelenskyy's office.

President Zelenskyy's visit to Latin America highlights Ukraine's determination to secure international support for its battle against Russian aggression. As he continues his diplomatic efforts, the Ukrainian president strives to build strong relationships with countries in the global south, particularly in Latin America, to bolster Ukraine's fight for freedom and democracy.

Overall, the trip marks a significant step forward in President Zelenskyy's pursuit of global solidarity in confronting Russia's invasion, reinforcing Ukraine's ties with Latin American nations, and enhancing its defense capabilities with the support of France.