The visit comes at a time when Russia and Western powers are trying to woo African support in the wake of the invasion of Ukraine.

Mr Kiir arrived in the Russian capital on Wednesday and was received by Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko Yurevich, according to statement from the president's press unit.

Mr Kiir's office says the meeting with the Russian president on Thursday will discuss prospects for the development of bilateral relations in various areas, as well as regional and international issues.

It adds that the visit aims at deepening diplomatic relations and explore other areas of co-operation on trade, investment opportunities and security.

The two leaders will also discuss the lifting of an arms embargo and targeted sanctions imposed on individuals in South Sudan, the statement added.

In May, Russia abstained in the UN Security Council vote to renew sanctions imposed on South Sudan, which include asset freezes, travel bans and an arms embargo.