Elton John has responded to the two pranksters that called him pretending to be Russian president Vladimir Putin.

The Russian comedians managed to get Sir Elton on the line and pretend that Putin was interested in speaking with the rock legend about LGBT rights in Russia.

The singer hit social media earlier this week claiming that he'd spoken with Putin about the matter and he was thrilled by Russia's willingness to move past some of their anti-gay policies.

The Kremlin was quick to deny that any such conversation had taken place and the pranksters soon stepped forward.

"Pranks are funny. Homophobia, however, is never funny," Elton responded via Instagram.

"I love Russia and my offer to talk to President Putin about LGBT rights still stands.

I will always stand up for those that are being degraded and discriminated against.

If this unfortunate incident has helped push this vital issue back into the spotlight, then I am happy to be pranked on this occasion.

@ejaf @president_vladimir_putin #lgbt #lgbtrights #ShareTheLove."