Putin tells African leaders: We value your stance on Ukraine, open for dialogue

Russian President Vladimir Putin told African leaders on Saturday that Russia welcomed their balanced approach to the conflict in Ukraine and was open to discussions.

"We are open to a constructive dialogue with all those who want peace based on the principles of justice and consideration of the legitimate interests of the parties," Putin said.

The leaders from South Africa, Senegal, Egypt, Zambia, Uganda, Congo Republic and the Comoro islands were meeting Putin at the government's 18th-century Konstantinovsky Palace after visiting Kyiv on Friday.