Putin calls for real

Putin phones John for real and the two agree a face-to-face meeting if their schedules allow it. A Kremlin spokesperson says it took some convincing from the Russian side for John to believe it was really Putin who wanted to talk to him.

He (Elton John) was in doubt for a period of time.

Putin tells John he was aware of the prank on Elton John and asked him “not to hold grudges” against the pranksters. Spokesperson:

If their schedules match accordingly, he’s ready to meet and discuss any issue which interests [the musician].