Theresa May and Vladimir Putin 'agree to improve relations', Kremlin says

Theresa May has spoken to Vladimir Putin for the first time since she became Prime Minister, the Kremlin said.

The Russian government claimed both leaders expressed dissatisfaction with UK-Russian relations and pledged to improve ties.

A Downing Street spokeswoman confirmed that Mrs May spoke on the phone with the Russian president on Tuesday.

The Kremlin said the pair agreed to develop a dialogue between their security agencies on issues relating to aviation security.

Britain's relationship with Russia has become increasingly strained over recent years, following the Ukraine crisis and Mr Putin's backing of the Syrian regime.

The pair are likely to first meet at the G20 summit of world leaders in China next month.