President Javier Milei spoke on the phone with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Monday, a noteworthy interaction after Argentina abstained on a vote to support Ukraine in a recent United Nations General Assembly.

“President Javier Milei had a warm phone conversation with the President of the Republic of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy,” the Office of the President posted on X on Monday afternoon.

“The leaders discussed the bilateral relationship and the peace process between Ukraine and Russia. President Milei thanked President Zelenskyy for his solidarity regarding the tragedy that occurred in Bahía Blanca.”

On March 7, a massive storm hit the Buenos Aires province coastal town causing catastrophic flooding and at least 16 fatal victims. 

The call comes after Argentina abstained on a vote late February at the United Nations General Assembly for a resolution regarding the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia. The resolution, which passed 93-8, had been originally submitted by the U.S., but they abstained at the time of voting because a series of amendments were added highlighting that the conflict was sparked by the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Argentina’s abstention was a stark contrast to Milei’s earlier stance, which was vocally supportive of Ukraine. The move came in the wake of President Donald Trump referring to Zelenskyy as a dictator and Argentine foreign policy increasingly aligning with the United States. Since Trump’s election, Argentina has mirrored U.S. policies, such as exiting the World Health Organization in February.