Two Russians say they were behind a call to Elton John where they pretended to be Vladimir Putin ringing to discuss gay rights.
Pranksters Vovan and Lexus claim they will air the conversation on Russian television on Wednesday night.
Lexus, real name Alexei Stolyarov, told Sky News that Sir Elton had described the call as the "most wonderful call he'd ever received" and that it was a "privilege" to speak to Mr Putin.
"My friend Vladimir was the Russian president. I was like the translator – his press secretary," said Stolyarov
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| Mr Putin's spokesman said the pair should apologise to Sir Elton |
The call is said to have lasted 11 minutes.
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The Russian leader's spokesman denied the call had taken place, but said Mr Putin could still respond positively to Sir Elton's offer.
"The president has always been open to discuss human rights issues," said Dmitry Peskov.
Speaking on Wednesday - after receiving an apology from the pranksters who impersonated him - Mr Peskov said the pair should instead say sorry to Sir Elton.
news.sky