President Salva Kiir with FVP Dr. Riek Machar before his plane take off at Juba International Airport for Russia on Wednesday, September 27, 2023 - Credit: Office of the President

President Salva Kiir has traveled to Russia on a state visit for bilateral talks with President Vladimir Putin.

On August 30^th, President Kiir received an invitation through the non-resident Ambassador of the Russian Federation to South Sudan Vladlen Semivolos when he met with his former Juba counterpart, Deng Dau.

Speaking to the press this morning, Minister of Presidential Affairs, Dr. Baranaba Marial Benjamin said talks between the two principles will discuss the lifting of arms embargo and targeted sanctions on individuals.

President Kiir is also expected to explain to his Russian Counterpart the process and implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement as well as the forthcoming elections in 2024.