Vladimir Putin Cancels Planned LGBT Meeting with Elton John

While most would love to attend any meeting with people named Elton or Vladimir, the Russian president is now putting the kabash on a meeting that would have otherwise been progressive and groundbreaking.

Musician Elton John, who was the victim of a rather scathing prank from a pair of Russian comedians posing as Putin last year, was subsequently promised some face time with the president. Now, it's emerged that the two will not meet before Elton's Moscow concert on Monday.

Says Dmitry Peskov, a spokesman for Putin:

"President Putin expressed readiness for this meeting. But this time, the meeting won't take place, unfortunately - their schedules do not match up. But this does not mean that such a meeting won't take place next time."

The English pop star was knighted by Britain's Queen Elizabeth almost 20 years ago, not only for his music but also for his service in AIDS awareness and fundraising. He has had a history of trying to dialog with Russia about their infamous anti-LGBTQ laws, which many believe have contributed to a spike in homophobia and violence.

Elton finally got to speak with Putin by phone after last fall's prank, but an in-person meeting has yet to take place.

Never one to go quietly, the singer is expected to speak up during his concert at Crocus City Hall, in Moscow on Monday. Hopefully, the Kremlin will be listening.