The video call comes against the backdrop of escalating tensions between Moscow and Washington over accusations that Russia is building up troops near Ukraine and plans to invade the country. Moscow has repeatedly rejected the claims and underscored that it stands by its right to move the nation's armed forces freely within its own territory.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and his US counterpart Joe Biden are due to hold a secure video call later on Tuesday to discuss a number of pressing issues related to Moscow-Washington relations, Ukraine, Iran, and NATO.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov earlier told reporters that the two presidents will kick off the online talks at 14:00 GMT and that they will not be broadcast live, even though some footage might be uploaded afterwards.