Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin (born 7 October 1952) is a Russian politician and former intelligence officer who has served as President of Russia since 2012, previously holding the position from 1999 until 2008. He was also the Prime Minister of Russia from 1999 to 2000 and again from 2008 to 2012.
Sir Elton Hercules John (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight; 25 March 1947) is an English singer, songwriter, pianist, and composer. Collaborating with lyricist Bernie Taupin since 1967 on more than 30 albums, John has sold more than 300 million records, making him one of the best-selling music artists. He has more than fifty Top 40 hits in the UK Singles Chart and US Billboard Hot 100, including seven number ones in the UK and nine in the US, as well as seven consecutive number-one albums in the US. His tribute single "Candle in the Wind 1997", rewritten in dedication to Diana, Princess of Wales, sold over 33 million copies worldwide and is the best-selling single in the history of the UK and US singles charts. He has also produced records and occasionally acted in films. John owned Watford F.C. from 1976 to 1987 and from 1997 to 2002. He is an honorary life president of the club.
Vladimir Putin tells Elton John he is 'mistaken' over Russian LGBT rights
news.sky.comVladimir Putin has responded to criticism from Sir Elton John on the Russian leader's attitude to LGBT rights by saying the singer is mistaken.
Sir Elton accused Mr Putin of duplicity after the president criticised the West for emphasising lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and trans culture over "traditional family values".
Mr Putin told a news conference: "I deeply respect him, he is a musical genius and we all love his performance, but I believe he's mistaken." Sir Elton and the filmmakers of his biopic
