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Cruises from Galveston

An island full of art, architecture, and boutiques.

Princess® returns to Galveston, sailing once again from this city tucked within a quaint Gulf Coast barrier island. Explore the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier and grab some local cuisine, or visit Moody Gardens with attractions and entertainment ranging from a world-class aquarium and a living rainforest to the Discovery Museum and Colonel Paddlewheel Boat, before you embark on a cruise to exciting destinations in the Western Caribbean and Mexico such as Costa Maya, Cozumel and Roatan.

Caribbean cruises

On a cruise from Galveston to the Western Caribbean, explore the beauty of unspoiled coral reefs and underwater caves as well as visit the ancient Mayan ruins throughout the region. One moment you can be walking among the vast ruins of this mighty civilization and the next delving into the culture of the Yucatán Peninsula or simply unwinding on beaches that offer some of the best snorkeling in the world.

What to Know About Cruises from Galveston

Known for its history, beaches and outdoor adventures, Galveston is truly a gem in Texas. Here’s everything you need to know about your cruise from Galveston. 

Galveston at a glance

• Language:  English
• Currency:  U.S. Dollar (USD)
• Time Zone:  Central Time (CT)
• Docking:  Your cruise from Galveston docks at the Port of Galveston located in the city’s historic downtown district.
• Attire:  Galveston’s temperatures throughout the year typically range from 48 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit, meaning it’s never too hot or too cold to spend the day at the beach.
• Transportation:  You can get around the island by Uber, Lyft, shuttle, limousine, or rental car. There are also unique transportation options such as surreys along the beachfront and horse-drawn carriages in the historic downtown district.

Things to do in Galveston

Before getting on a cruise from Galveston, start your vacation with a visit to the city’s museums, historic neighborhoods, and cultural icons. Take a walk along the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier, home to family-friendly rides, games, and other attractions. Then relax on one of Galveston’s many iconic beaches and enjoy the 32-miles of coastline. Whether you are traveling with family, a group of friends or your significant other, this laid-back island has something for everyone.

Cruise Ship Sailing from Galveston

Join our Princess fleet to sail on some of the best cruises from Galveston. Find the comforts of home along with the luxuries you deserve on board any of our ships. Discover what makes our fleet so unique.

Learn more about: Regal Princess®

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Best Cruises Out of Galveston (8 Ships Through 2025)

If you’re looking for great cruise options out of Galveston , TX you’re not alone.  The Texas port has seen tremendous growth this year and is expected to break its own records in terms of cruise passengers.

Already the fourth largest cruise port, the Port of Galveston is seeing major cruise lines invest in new terminals.  The port expects to beat last years numbers and see over 1 million passengers in 2023.

Best cruises out of Galveston

What are the best cruises to take out of Galveston?  Besides two Oasis-class ships from Royal Caribbean there are several new cruise ships offering sailings from the port.

Both Carnival Jubilee and Norwegian Prima will start offering cruises out of Galveston starting in December of 2023.

In this article we will highlight cruises on 8 great cruise ships sailing from the port.

Between now and the end of the year there are 235 sailings out of Galveston.  2024 will see 368 sailings, and so far there are 131 sailings on the 2025 schedule with more to be added later.

In random order here are what we think are the best cruises from Port Galveston over the next couple years.

Allure of the Seas

Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas is a 2009 Oasis-class ship that is offering sailings now through the end of October out of Galveston.

These are 7-night cruises that visit ports of call at Roatan , Costa Maya, and Cozumel before returning back to port.  This is the only itinerary for Allure out of Galveston.

Prices start at $646 per person (without taxes and fees) and there are 26 sailing dates to choose from.

Allure of the Seas offers over 20 dining options, Broadway-style shows, live music, comedy acts, fitness and recreation facilities such as a fitness center, jogging track, and water park, a full-service spa, kids and family activities including a kids’ club, mini-golf course, ice-skating rink, carousel, and various shops.

See prices on cruises out of Galveston

Harmony of the Seas

Another Oasis-class cruise ship, Harmony of the Seas was built in 2015.  It is newer than Allure of the Seas and has a few features not on Allure, including a 10-story dry slide on the back of the ship called the Ultimate Abyss.

Cruises on Harmony of the Seas out of Galveston will begin in November of 2023.   78 sailings are currently offered and the ship will visit the Western Caribbean and Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Sailings range from 6 to 8 nights and visit ports of call like Costa Maya , Roatan, Cozumel, Nassau, and Perfect Day at CocoCay. Only the 8-night sailings visit Royal Caribbean’s private island at Perfect Day at CocoCay.

A majority of the sailings offered on this ship are 7-nighters that stop at Roatan, Costa Maya, and Cozumel.

Carnival Jubilee

One of the most anticipated ships to sail out of Galveston is Carnival Jubilee . The brand new Excel-class cruise ship with a roller coaster will debut in December of 2023.

Sailings on Jubilee out of Galveston will run through April of 2025 right now, so there are plenty of dates to choose from.

This cruise ship will offer 7-day sailings to the Western Caribbean that will visit ports of call like Mahogany Bay Costa Maya, and Cozumel.

Prices start at $564 per person (without taxes and fees).

See prices on Carnival Jubilee here

Carnival Vista

The first Vista-class ship, Carnival Vista is currently sailing out of Galveston and will offer cruises out of the port until the first week of November.

It’s a great ship from Carnival and was voted best new cruise ship in 2016 when it debuted.

There are 6 and 7-night sailings on Vista to the Western Caribbean. Ports of call on some itineraries include Costa Maya, Belize, Cozumel, Mahogany Bay, and Montego Bay.

Prices start at $524 per person (without taxes and fees) and there are 30 sailings to choose from.

See prices on Carnival Vista here

Disney Magic

There are currently 18 cruises on Disney Magic out of Galveston, Texas.    These sailings start in December of 2023 and are available through April of 2024.

Disney Magic was launched in 1997 and is the oldest ship in Disney’s fleet.

This is the only Disney ship that is currently sailing out of Galveston. Prices start at $1,758 for two guests and range from 4-night Western Caribbean cruises to a 7-nighter that stops at Falmouth and Grand Cayman.

Other ports of call visited by Disney Magic will include Progreso, Cozumel, and San Juan.

See prices on Disney Magic

Norwegian Escape

Norwegian Escape is a 2015 Breakaway-class cruise ship that offers sailings from December of 2024 through March of 2025.  (Read my review of this ship at the previous link)

On this ship you can take a 7-day cruise out of Galveston and visit ports of call at Costa Maya, Harvest Caye, Roatan, and Cozumel.

Norwegian also offers some 14-day itineraries on Norwegian Escape in January of 2025. These 2-week sailings will visit the following ports of call: Great Stirrup Cay, St. Thomas, St. Lucia, St. Maarten, Tortola, Puerto Plata, Grand Cayman, and Cozumel.

Prices for the 7-day sailings start at $699 per person (without taxes and fees).

See prices on Norwegian Escape here

Norwegian Prima

Cruisers out of Galveston will be able to sail on Norwegian Prima starting in December of 2023.  There are currently 17 sailings offered out of the Texas port which are mostly 7-day sailings with one 11-day sailing offered in April of 2024.

Related: What to expect on Norwegian Prima

Ports of call will include Costa Maya, Harvest Caye, Roatan, and Cozumel. The April 11-day sailing will stop at the ABC islands of Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao.

Prices for the 7-day sailing start at $729 per person (without taxes and fees) and $1,299 for the 11-day sailing.

See prices on Norwegian Prima cruises here

Regal Princess

Regal Princess will be sailing out of Galveston starting in November of 2023 through March of 2024.

The 2013 Royal-class ship is the 2nd of its class and offers 20 sailings during it’s homeport in Texas.

Starting at $428 per person (without taxes and fees), Regal Princess is offering 7-day sailings that visit ports in Roatan, Belize, and Cozumel.

There is also a 10-day sailing starting at $998 out of Galveston that visits the following ports: Montego Bay, Grand Cayman, Roatan, Belize City, and Costa Maya.

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Closest Cruise Ports Near Me: Midwest United States

Here's how to choose the best cruise port.

By Robert Schrader | Published on July 19, 2023

If you live in the Midwest United States and Google "cruise ports near me," you might initially feel shocked. As a born-and-bred Midwesterner, I know all too well what an ordeal getting to the coast can be! Whether you fly west to Los Angeles and Seattle, or southward to Houston, New Orleans or Miami, the idea of having to take a flight before you take your cruise can be daunting. I, however, prefer to think of it as exhilarating — here's why.

The Truth About Cruising From The Midwest

There are a lot of reasons to love living in the Midwest — easy access to the ocean is not among them. Growing up, I remember many a long drive to the Gulf or the Atlantic, arguably more than any beach or seafood meal. As an adult, however, I can appreciate that there's opportunity in having to reach one destination en route to another, even as an adult who's spent a fair few living outside the middle of the country.

Indeed, rather than asking, "Where is the closest cruise port to me?" you might instead ask where the coolest one is. Depending on how much time you've allocated for your cruise and the preferences of the people in your party, you can think of the place where you set sail from as a trip-within-a-trip. Before your ship leaves or after it returns to port, make the most of your travels by diving into the city where you'll embark on your journey.

Another factor to keep in mind, beyond convenience and personal preferences, is that not all cruise destinations are accessible from every cruise port. Obviously, if you're cruising to the Caribbean , doing so from the West Coast will be a very circuitous journey indeed. Likewise, the vast majority of Alaska cruises depart from Seattle, or even from ports in Alaska itself, depending upon which one you choose.

Here, too, lies an opportunity. Personally, rather than wondering about the nearest cruise port to me, I sometimes think of the two main decisions I need to make — where I'll leave from and where I'll go — together. Heading to Central America from New Orleans, for example, is a package deal. You can see the stunning beaches of Belize on the front end, then swim through a world of sugar and dough with beignets  at Café du Monde in New Orleans on the back end. Which combination will you choose?

The Best Cruise Port To The Caribbean

It's no surprise that the Caribbean is one of the world's most diverse cruising destinations, with as many ports to visit as there are postcard-perfect beaches. Some of the most popular ports for Caribbean cruises include Galveston (near Houston), New Orleans and the ports of Fort Lauderdale and Miami in South Florida. These ports are just a quick — and often affordable — flight from the Midwestern United States.

The Galveston  cruise port is a popular option, for many reasons. For travelers who are flying, the fact that both of Houston's airports are hubs means you'll have your pick of convenient flights from the Midwest. Driving to the coast? While the Houston area isn't exactly close to most of the Midwest, it's a relatively straight shot. As far as what to do in Galveston? Let's just say that if the beaches (and beach boardwalk) don't entice, the amazing seafood meals and century-old architecture should do the trick.

When it comes to Florida  cruise ports, meanwhile, you've got even more options. If you can plan for a few days here before or after your cruise vacation, you can explore all of South Florida, and maybe even beyond that. With a couple of days, you can explore everywhere from Palm Beach to South Beach; and with a few more than that, you could do a Florida Keys road trip.

Considering the New Orleans  cruise port? This is a personal favorite of mine. Usually, I like to set sail for my destination (typically somewhere in Mexico or Central America, but sometimes farther east) and then return to the Big Easy as my reward for a trip well-taken. Depending on my mood, I may just chill out in the French Quarter, explore churches and cemeteries, stuff myself on Jambalaya or even boat through the nearby bayous.

Where To Begin Your Pacific Pilgrimage

Pacific cruises aren't as typical of a choice for Midwestern travelers for one obvious reason: Los Angeles  is a lot farther than Louisiana! On the other hand, no matter where on America's left coast you hit the open sea from, Pacific cruises are more than worth the journey of getting there. This would be true even if you didn't spend a couple days in the port city but is especially true if you do.

Headed to Mexico? Even though ports in the LA area will never appear in a list of "cruise ports near me" if you live in cities like Chicago or St. Louis, SoCal is more than just a gateway to Mexico's Baja Peninsula or offshore Catalina Island. Sometimes, I like to spend a day or two here and rent a car. From there, I head north along the 101 to Malibu or Santa Barbara, or dig into unique neighborhoods — Thai town and its spicy food are a personal favorite place to stop.

If you have a little longer before or after your cruise, you have endlessly more options. Head south, whether to the OC and Laguna Beach or all the way to San Diego. You could also drive eastward into the desert, whether to the famous Joshua Tree or to somewhere more obscure or even farther north along the Pacific Coast Highway to Big Sur and beyond. Los Angeles is the city of dreams not just for Hollywood hopefuls, but also for travelers with inspiration and curiosity.

Apart from the Los Angeles cruise port, the most popular place to set sail is probably Seattle, which is a common jumping-off-point for cruises to Alaska. Here, you can spend a night or two and explore exciting neighborhoods like Downtown Seattle and Capitol Hill, or stay longer and hike Mt. Rainier or destinations even farther into the rainforests of the Pacific Northwest. Some Alaska cruises even depart from Anchorage. If you fly here, spend some time kayaking near Seward or even enjoy a drive north to Fairbanks before you head for even wilder waters.

The Europe Cruising Quandary

While it's technically possible to cruise all the way to Europe from ports on the east coast of the United States, many shorter European cruises actually depart from European ports. Some popular options include Barcelona, the timeless city of Antoni Gaudí where the curious sounds of Catalán  are as audible as more familiar Castellano, and the floating city of Venice, where your cruise vessel isn't the only ship that can take you somewhere exciting.

In this instance, being in the Midwest doesn't actually put you at much of a disadvantage compared to other American travelers. You may need to connect somewhere if you don't live in a city with a major hub (as I don't), but everyone who isn't sailing the whole way to Europe will have to get on a plane . If you think a Europe cruise will float your boat, then, don't stress out about the journey to your destination.

Instead, get excited: Most major European ports are well-connected to regions and cities you're unlikely to visit on your cruise itinerary — this really is two trips in one. Cruising from Athens? Use your days in the ancient city as an opportunity to head to inland Greek destinations like Mount Olympus and the monastery of Meteora, or even to head north into Balkan countries like Albania, Macedonia, Bosnia and beyond.

When "the closest cruise port to me" is on the other side of the ocean, it also invites you to make more adventurous choices. Everyone loves the Mediterranean, for example, by why not head north and sail beneath summer's Midnight Sun? Whether from the fairy tale city of Copenhagen and its Little Mermaid statue or from London where traveling the world can be as simple as visiting a few different neighborhoods, Northern Europe is a hotter cruise destination than its temperatures suggest.

Wheels Down, Anchor Up

Written By ROBERT SCHRADER 

Robert Schrader is a writer, photographer and one of the web's original travel bloggers. In 2009 he launched his blog  Leave Your Daily Hell , which has taken him to nearly 100 countries, and has since spun off niche sites focused on Japan, Thailand, Taiwan and Italy. Robert seeks to inform, inspire, entertain and empower travelers through his work, which has been featured in in-flight magazines and digital media outlets around the world. He's excited about travel's post-pandemic rebirth, and in particular the cruise industry's comeback!

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Carnival Cruise Lines 2024 Schedule Calendar 2024

Carnival Cruise Lines 2024 Schedule Calendar 2024 . Cruise · published january 2, 2024 · updated february 13, 2024. 7 big changes coming to carnival in 2024. 2024 & 2025 schedule (with prices) on cruise critic.

We found you 2 cruise s. Join us for a rundown of 2024 carnival cruises and top highlights from our ships, coming your way this year!

The February 11, 2024 Cruise On.

If you're planning a carnival cruise in 2024, you might want to become familiar with the.

Carnival Cruise Line Releases The Latest Cruise Director Schedule Assignments Across The Fleet Into 2024 And 2025.

Cruises on carnival horizon 2024.

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2024 Cruise Year For Carnival Cruises With Departure Dates, Ship Names, Cruise Lengths, Cruise Names, Starting Point/End Points And Prices.

The day when the schedule for the ipl 2024 will be released.

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Russian River Cruises

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Russia is again welcoming travelers!

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Luxurious river cruises in russia.

Explore authentic Russian cities. Enjoy premium service and engaging activities as you sail the Volga River.

2022 Cruise Season

Join our signature small group journeys and cruise in luxury along the Russian Volga river!

The Russian Odyssey

An extended 'South to North' view of Russia from Astrakhan to St. Petersburg through Moscow.

Explore Moscow, St. Petersburg and Russia’s Golden Ring in greater depth. Stay at gorgeous Four Seasons hotels. Enjoy special access to iconic cultural sites.

Lower Volga

Treat yourself to an unforgettable experience cruising the Volga river from Moscow to Astrakhan. The tour includes 2 nights in Moscow.

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A Volga river cruise is more than a geographical voyage; it’s also a journey through Russia’s rich and captivating history. No other experience takes you so completely to another place and time. The Volga is Europe’s longest and largest river; it meanders through the stories of Ivan the Terrible and his rise to power, the two historic ‘Greats’ Peter and Catherine, and then on into today. It’s a unique opportunity to see modern Russia in the context of its intriguing history, ably assisted by friendly and professional academics and tour guides. A Volga Dream Russian river tour promises to leave you with an unforgettable afterglow of fond memories.

Moscow to St. Petersburg River Cruise

Moscow and St. Petersburg are Russia’s best-known cities, but the towns of Russia’s historic Golden Ring are delightful too. The luxurious Volga Dream offers a unique opportunity to visit these Russian gems by sailing gently along the Volga River on an unforgettable cruising experience. In small, exclusive groups you’ll enjoy preferential access to some of Russia’s most significant cultural sites.

Moscow to Astrakhan River Cruise

Your River Cruise on the luxurious MS Volga Dream takes you from Moscow along Russia’s grand Volga River to the legend that is Volgograd (formerly Stalingrad) and Astrakhan on the Caspian Sea. Along the way, you’ll discover the treasures of Yaroslavl, the oldest city on the Volga, medieval Nizhniy Novgorod and beautiful Kazan, the ancient Tatar capital. We plan our tour carefully to combine the very best of Moscow with a world-class Volga River cruise.

Discover Russia with MS Volga Dream - Click-through map

We love hearing from guests about their time in Russia and one comment often hear is how surprised people are by the Russian capital. We can’t say for certain what people expected but we do know that it’s always far removed from what they imagined! It’s been called a modern metropolis, a cosmopolitan city, an historic gem, an architectural treasure and a cultural powerhouse, among other descriptions. Majestic Moscow has always surprised our guests and left them with lasting and fond memories.

Russia’s famous Golden Ring is an archipelago of historic towns surrounding Moscow. Uglich is one of the oldest and was founded under Igor, the last Varangian prince. It once resisted the Mongol invasion and its ancient walls saw the grisly murder of young Dmitri, son of Ivan the Terrible. The impressive Church of St. Dmitri on the Blood, with its classic onion domes and blood red walls, is a fine example of classic Russian architecture. The tour ends with an enchanting choral concert.

This, the oldest city on the Volga River, and now a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts a wealth of ancient orthodox treasures. The impressive Transfiguration of the Savior, adorned with murals depicting St. John’s apocalyptic visions can be seen in the Spassky Monastery. The Church of St. Elijah the Prophet is decorated with an awe-inspiring selection of rich frescoes. For a real taste of pre-revolutionary Russia, visitors are entertained by a costumed reception at the Governor’s House.

Close to the shores of White Lake once were the ‘tsar’s fishing grounds’. It lies in a place so serene that ancient monks chose to build no fewer than three holy sites here, including the Ferapontov Monastery. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, its chapels boast magnificent frescoes by Dionysius, one of Russia’s most renowned icon painters. The Kirillo-Belozersky Monastery was a refuge for many nobles during tumultuous times and later a fortress that successfully repelled invading armies.

The Karelia region is a vast and naturally beautiful wilderness that spreads all the way from St. Petersburg to the Arctic Circle. The glorious island village of Kizhi consists almost entirely of the traditionally styled wooden buildings of ‘Old Russia’. Among them is the famous Transfiguration Church built in 1714. Remarkably, and in testament to the craftsmen of the time, not a single nail was used in its construction! Kizhi is one of the favorite stops on the river cruise to St. Petersburg.

A typical rural hamlet brought to life by warm and welcoming villagers. Volga Dream guests are invited into local homes to enjoy classic Russian fare, tea with jam and ‘pirozhki’ (pies). Enthusiastic hosts share Russian traditions and the appeal of village life while proudly showing off their scrupulously kept homes and kitchen gardens. The tour continues with a brief bus ride to see a unique World War II memorial and then, for a real glimpse of Russian life, a visit to a local primary school.

Nizhny Novgorod

This was once a wealthy city thanks to its proximity to rich eastern trading routes. During the Soviet era, the city was closed to outsiders because of its military importance. It’s also where many political prisoners were sent to live out their days in exile. The 16th-century Kremlin ramparts offer spectacular views and the city is known for its elaborately decorated churches. For Volga Dream cruise guests, the highlight of the day is an evening folk concert performed by local children.

Sailing along the Volga river, the riverbank gradually ceases to be dominated by Orthodox churches. Instead, beautiful mosques appear as the river crosses into Tatarstan where the first stop is scenic Kazan, the region’s capital. Inside the white walls of the citadel, the famous Kul Sharif mosque and the old Cathedral of Peter and Paul stand side-by-side symbolizing the two faiths’ long and peaceful coexistence in the region. A concert of traditional Tatar music ends the Volga Dream tour in Kazan.

Passing the Zhigulevskie Mountains offers wonderful views from the sundeck before touring the city. One of the key attractions is the fascinating Space Museum, which offers a revealing glimpse of how the Soviet Union pursued its ambitious journey to the cosmos. The town is also noted for its beautiful esplanade, perfect for a relaxed stroll beside the Volga river. This in turn leads to the Samara State Art Museum. Founded in 1897, it is home to a collection of more than 16,000 works of art.

This city is best known for its close associations with cosmonaut, Yuri Gagarin. The Russian hero who achieved worldwide fame as the first man in space lived and studied here. Saratov used to be home to a large German community, a heritage that can still be seen in the local architecture. The Volga Dream tour visits the Radishchev State Art Museum, the first picture gallery in Russia outside Moscow and St. Petersburg.

Originally called Tsaritsyn, the city was renamed Stalingrad from 1925 to 1961 in honor of the USSR’s leader. During World War II, the city’s residents put up a heroic defense, repelling an advancing Nazi invasion. The battle for Stalingrad has gone down in history as a pivotal moment in the bloody conflict on the eastern front. The most ferocious and deadly fighting took place on Mamayev Hill, where an imposing memorial now stands close to the excellent Battle of Stalingrad Panorama Museum.

Saint Petersburg

If Moscow surprises, then St Petersburg delights. Peter the Great founded the city to showcase Russia’s newfound enlightenment. He wanted to show the modern world a cultured and advanced society. In short, he built the city to impress and in that he succeeded splendidly! The striking buildings were designed by some of the finest architects Europe had to offer and even now, the ‘Venice of the North’ never fails to enchant with its spectacular buildings and impressive canal network. It is a city of true grandeur.

Cocktails with the Captain

Commanding any ship is a complex role that calls for a long list of skills. Captains know their vessels inside out as well as well as the routes they sail and when things don’t go to plan, they have to make instant decisions. Above all though, the most important part of the job, underpinning everything they do, is to keep the ship and everyone aboard safe. The Captain’s cocktail party is a great and a wonderful opportunity for passengers and crew to get acquainted as the gets underway.

Matryoshka doll painting

There is nothing more typically Russian than a Matryoshka. It embodies the fact that there’s always something deeper to be found in every aspect of Russian life. Learning the traditional designs and techniques used to decorate these iconic dolls offers a pleasant diversion and some cathartic creativity!

Superb Service & Dining

Our restaurant serves the highest standard of international cuisine, freshly made by our Cordon Bleu Chef. Choose either a sumptuous buffet or set menu for lunch while dinner is always four or five courses with full service. High praise for the exquisite quality of meals is yet another constantly recurring feature in feedback from our guests.

Meet the Professor

From the Mongol hordes to Soviet times, Russia’s history is, like all of Europe’s, a complex web of political intrigue, war and peace, trade and treaties, as well as heroes and villains. Academics devote whole lifetimes to studying Russia’s long past and one of them presents a series of lectures shedding light on everything from Gorbachev to Chekhov, Khrushchev to Ivan the Terrible and of course, contemporary Russia. Our Professor is on board throughout the river cruise for informal conversation.

Beginner’s Russian

The Russian language can be rather beautiful and poetic and we know that many seasoned travelers enjoy trying their hand at different languages. Our onboard teachers provide an introduction to the riches of Russian, so guests can try out a few useful words and phrases on real Russians during the exciting river tours from Moscow to St. Petersburg or from Moscow to Volgograd!

Russian tea tasting

The drink we tend to associate with Russia is vodka, but tea, in fact, is the much more universal beverage of choice throughout the country. Guests will get acquainted with the Russian tea etiquette, a fundamental component of the country's social culture, and enjoy the traditional tea ceremony while cruising from St. Petersburg to Moscow or taking a Grand Volga river tour.

Russian Dinner & Vodka Tasting

All our dining is international but for Russian Dining night, the Chef includes a selection of traditional Russian dishes: Chicken Kiev, Kulebyaka and no Russian table is complete without Borsch. To add to the ‘Taste of Russia’ optional Russian dress, or at least a touch of Russian style, is provided along with enthusiastic help from our staff!

Russian Cooking Class

A plate of pelmeni might not look like much to the untrained eye, but it forms the heart of Russian cuisine and culture. Basically, it's a type of dumpling: small portions of meat and onion wrapped in a thin sheet of unleavened dough and boiled, a little like ravioli. Guests can join a Russian cooking class onboard the MS Volga Dream to learn how to cook this delicious Russian dish.

Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninov Piano Recital

Some of the greatest classical music ever written comes from Russia. It’s hard to imagine a more fitting stage for a virtuoso solo recital by our resident concert pianist than the mighty Volga or a better backdrop than the heart of Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninov’s own serene homeland.

Russian River Cruise Aboard Volga Dream

Moscow to St. Petersburg

Why Volga Dream

Family Owned & Operated

MS Volga Dream is Russia’s only family-owned river cruise ship. She can accommodate up to 100 guests, far fewer than most other cruise ships on the river making for a uniquely friendly and intimate atmosphere aboard.

Five-Star Central Hotels

We at Volga Dream are completely convinced that, our guests should stay in great 5-star hotels in Moscow and St. Petersburg within comfortable walking distance of all the major attractions, theaters and restaurants, rather than having to waste time in traffic.

Luxurious Accommodation

The MS Volga Dream is the most intimate and elegant 5-star cruise vessel in Russia. She boasts 56 cabins, all river facing, ranging from comfortable Standard Cabins to spacious Junior Suites and the luxurious forward facing Owner's Suite.

Russian Cultural Experience

Explore Russia's past with the help of professional tour guides. Our on-board program includes fascinating talks on Russian history and politics, Russian language lessons, a festival of Russian cuisine (including vodka tasting!), and much more.

Gourmet Dining

Our on board restaurant serves international cuisine to the highest standard, all freshly made by our Cordon Bleu Chef. For Russian Dining night, he prepares a selection of traditional Russian dishes: Chicken Kiev, Kulebyaka and Borsch.

Tailored Service

All our service crew members are native Russians who are fluent in English and handpicked by the Owner. Proudly, the Volga Dream is famous for her hard working and very hospitable personnel who take care of every aspect of your life aboard.

Download Our Brochure

It's never been easier to plan your next holiday in Russia. Download our free brochure to learn more about authentic Russian river cruises.

Escape the hassle and bustle and add a satisfyingly informative element to your trip and bring together a colorful mosaic of people, history, traditions,  religion, music and art. These are the many strands that time has woven into what is known today as Russia.

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Putin seizes £75million from Google's Moscow bank accounts to fund Russia’s war on Ukraine

Russian authorities took £75 million from Google to fund TV propaganda for Vladimir Putin's crazed war in Ukraine, new court documents filed by the tech giant claim

• 11:40, 25 Aug 2024

Vladimir Putin has plundered $100 million (£75million) from Google to fund Russia's war in Ukraine , according to new legal documents.

Court filings in the US have revealed how the money was taken from the tech giant’s Moscow bank accounts in 2022 around the time the devastating conflict began - forcing their Russian subsidiary into bankruptcy. Google fully exited the country in October 2023. The money taken by the bailiffs was instead given to state-run Russian TV channels, such as Russia Today and Tsargrad, which have both played a central role in broadcasting propaganda to the population about the two-year war in Ukraine.

It comes after the San Francisco-based firm filed lawsuits against the two broadcasters and the Russian channel NFPT in US and English courts last week. According to the Telegraph , Google said in the US documents: “The bailiffs seized more than $100m of Google Russia ’s assets, even though the amount purportedly due under the judgement at the time was less than $12.5m (one billion roubles). Tsargrad received one billion roubles from the seizure, which it said it would use to support Russia’s war in Ukraine.”

The new case forms part of a wider legal battle playing out around the world , with lawsuits being filed by the Russians against Google in South Africa, Turkey, Serbia and Kyrgyzstan. A South African court found in favour of NFPT in a preliminary court order in June after they sought what they claimed is a debt from Google’s international business.

Russia and Ukraine this week exchanged more than 100 prisoners of war each as Kyiv marked its third Independence Day since Moscow's full-scale invasion. Ukraine said the 115 Ukrainian servicemen who were freed were conscripts, many of whom were taken prisoner in the first months of Russia's invasion. Among them are nearly 50 soldiers captured by Russian forces from the Azovstal steelworks in Mariupol.

The Russian Defence Ministry said the 115 Russian soldiers had been captured in the Kursk region, where Ukrainian forces launched their surprise offensive into Russia two weeks ago. Leaders in Belgorod, Russia, declared a state of emergency as a result of Ukraine's counter strike, which has reportedly seen more than 200,000 Russians evacuate their homes. Putin's popularity within Russia has been hit by the incursion, dropping by 3.3% to 73.6% within a fortnight of the beginning of the attack on August 6, according to Kremlin-linked research group VTsIOM.

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Russia to Modernize its Yak-52 Trainers to Shoot Down Ukrainian Kamikaze Drones

The yak-52b2 upgrade includes electronic warfare systems and multifunctional displays that will allow it to combat reconnaissance and attack drones..

A fter Ukraine began using its Soviet-era Yak-52 training aircraft to shoot down Russian drones, Russia also has announced repurposing the same planes in its inventory with specific upgrades. Russian aerospace executives stated that the modification and upgrade of the plane to the Yak-52B2 standard for a dedicated "UAV countermeasure" role is a priority.

RIA Novosti quoted the head of this project at the Aviasroitel Design Bureau. Dmitry Motin: "Today, one of the priority projects for our bureau is the modernization of the Yak-52 training aircraft into the Yak-52B2 ‘UAV countermeasure aircraft'. At present, we are expecting to receive an airworthiness certificate from the Federal Air Transport Agency.”

The announcement came on the same day Ukraine conducted "one of its largest" ever drone strikes into Moscow, with the RuMoD (Russia Ministry of Defense) claiming it shot down 11 UAVs. Russia has usually used a combination of close/short-range, point-defense AD (Air Defense) systems like Pantsir, EW (Electronic Warfare) and jammers to bring down the drones.

As The Aviationist had reported, Russia had been struggling to match Ukraine's scale and speed of replenishing its drone stocks with non-kinetic, soft-kill systems for cheap drones across the sector and for homeland defense. However, it is Ukraine's slow and bulky drones like the Ukrjet UJ-22 that scored notable successes in penetrating Russia's layered and integrated air defense. The Yak-52B2 program comes amid this backdrop.

Drone killer Yak-52

The modernization will involve installing new instrumentation on the aircraft, including a multifunctional display in the rear cockpit, navigation systems and a new "electronic warfare systems for suppressing communication channels." This upgrade will allow the Yak-52 to "combat attack and reconnaissance drones" and also train pilots, said Russian media.

These upgrades are consistent with the role of an anti-UAV propeller plane, networked with other ground radars to locate, assign targets or simply jam the drones itself. The report does not mention kinetic weapons like guns embedded inside the wings' leading edges, reminiscent of World War 2 and early-Cold War aircraft.

Whether it would have underwing pods carrying guns for the purpose is also not known. In Ukraine's case, when its Yak-52 shot down the Orlan-10 drone on Apr. 27, 2024, and other drones in later occasions, The Aviationist had concluded that the second crew member shot down the drone.

Whether Russia choses to undertake the arduous airframe redesign and install guns or rely on the rear crew member to do the shooting remains to be seen. Nevertheless, such a plane cannot undertake the counter UAV role without kinetic weapons capability. It is currently not known how many Yak-52 Russia plans to convert for the purpose.

Ukrainian drones

Kyiv has demonstrated how Ukrjet's UJ-22 kamikaze UAV can be asymmetrically effective against sophisticated AD systems. The single-engine drone has a nose-mounted propeller and a monoplane design, with a 3.7 meters length and a 4.2 meter wingspan. It can carry a 20 kg bomb load under its fuselage at a distance of 800 km.

While it is not known whether it has been used in the latest attack, it has been used in earlier attacks, like the one on Apr. 24, 2023 , when an explosive-laden example was found near Moscow. Such drones can fly lower than cruise missiles and closer to the terrain.

A Yak-52B2 can be tasked with engaging such threats, while also providing optical and electronic targeting from the air of other approaching drones to ground-based AD, unburdening those systems.

The Yakovlev Yak-52 is a Soviet-era aircraft that was widely used for military pilot training. Designed by the Yakovlev Design Bureau and flying for the first time in 1976, it is a two-seat, single-engine, all-metal monoplane with a low-wing configuration.

The Yak-52's distinctive feature is its strong airframe, making it popular among aerobatic shows. It flies on a single Vedeneyev M-14P radial engine that generates adequate power for aerobatic maneuvers and training flights. The aircraft has a tandem seating arrangement, with the student pilot sitting in the front and the instructor pilot in the rear, allowing for effective communication between the two.

In addition to its training role, the Yak-52 has also been used for light ground attack missions. Its slow stall speed makes it perfect for SMI (Slow Movers Intercept) roles like the Apr. 27 shootdown of the Orlan-10.

The post Russia to Modernize its Yak-52 Trainers to Shoot Down Ukrainian Kamikaze Drones appeared first on The Aviationist .

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Russia Cruises

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On a river cruise in Russia you’ll likely visit two of this expansive country’s most important cities, St. Petersburg and Moscow. St. Petersburg has always been more of a city focused on the arts and Moscow on business and politics. Tolstoy even remarked about this dichotomy in his masterpiece novel Anna Karenina . In St. Petersburg you’ll find the ornate Hermitage Museum, an art museum which was started by Catherine the Great. In Moscow you’ll be wowed by the colorful onion domes of St. Basil’s Cathedral at Red Square. When cruising through Russia you’ll also get a chance to experience the rural parts of Western Russia in Goritsy or the Mandrogi village, which is reconstructed to look just as it did during the 18 th century.

Things to Do on a Cruise to Russia

Adopt the pluck and determination of the Russian people and realize that there is nothing you can’t do on your cruise to Russia. Russia is full of crazy stories, exciting history and beautiful traditions, so drink it in with some unforgettable experiences. A few of our favorite things to do are outlined below:

• Explore the armory at the Kremlin where you can see the stunning royal jewels of the czars and czarinas. Don’t forget to check out the Faberge eggs, intricately decorated and jewel-adorned eggs created in the late 1800s and early 1900s.  
• Visit a wooden church with 22 domes that is made without one single nail. This remarkable building is in Kizhi Island surrounded by other buildings at an open air museum.  

• Spend a day discovering the more than 3 million works that make up the Hermitage Museum, which is housed in the Winter Palace, a former home of Russian royals located in St. Petersburg.  
• Though ballet comes from Italy, Russia has made this elegant dance form what it is today. Be sure to enjoy a performance at either the Bolshoi Theater in Moscow or the Mariinsky Theater in St. Petersburg.  

• Enjoy a Shashlik lunch. Shashlik is a Russian variation of a shish kebab which generally consists of grilled beef or cubed lamb that is been marinated and is roasted on a spit often paired with a variety of vegetables such as tomato, onion and eggpant.  This is a popular fast food dish in Russia.  
• Go to GUM, Moscow's exorbitant shopping mall, to shop (or just browse) through one designer store after the other.  

Map of Russia:

Top 10 russia cruises, russia: cruise lines.

River cruise lines offer in-depth visits to Russia where you’ll get a real sense of the nation’s culture – from the big cities to the rural outposts. Each day is packed with history, art and tradition. 

Russia: Departure Ports

Russian river cruises either flow north or south, meaning they either start in St. Petersburg or Moscow. Moscow is the current capital of the country, but St. Petersburg used to hold that title and was the home of many of the country’s czars. Both of these large cities offer great art museums and incredible domed churches. No matter where your river cruise starts, you’ll get a real sense of Russian culture as St. Petersburg offers an exploration of Russian history while Moscow is on the cutting edge and looking forward. 

Photo Gallery for Russia Cruises

Catch a glimpse into grand Russia in our Russia cruising photo gallery. Preview many of Russia’s national treasures – like the Peterhof Palace, St. Basil’s Cathedral, Katherine’s Palace and Red Square – before contacting one of our cruise experts to plan your very own trip to this fascinating nation.

Assumption Cathedral in Yaroslavl from Volga River

Church of the Dmity in Uglich from the Volga River

Fountains in Peterhof Palace in St. Petersburg

Interior of Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood

Katherine's Palace in Pushkin, Russia

Matrioshka Nesting dolls from Russia

Red Square in Moscow, Russia

St. Basil's Cathedral on Red Square in Moscow

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Russia ‘captures major town in east Ukraine’

Moscow has claimed to have captured a “major” town in eastern Ukraine as its forces continue to make grinding advances in the Donetsk region.

Russia’s defence ministry said on Monday it had “liberated” the town of Artemovo, known as Zalizne in Ukraine, describing it as one of the area’s “major population centres”.

With a recorded population of 5,000 people in 2022, its capture would represent the largest single gain made by Russia in recent weeks after capturing a series of smaller settlements nearby, some no bigger than a single street.

But as all eyes remain fixed on Ukraine’s unprecedented two-week-old invasion into Russia’s Kursk region , Kyiv has repeatedly warned Moscow is steadily driving towards the key hub of Pokrovsk.

The city is one of Ukraine’s main defensive strongholds in the Donetsk region that supplies Ukrainian troops and towns across the eastern front and has long been a major target for Russia.

Ukraine’s army chief confirmed that “heavy fighting” was taking place close to Pokrovsk, where Russian forces are now less than six miles from the city limits.

Gen. Oleksandr Syrsky said that the enemy had tried to storm their positions 45 times in the past 24 hours, while a record number of clashes were recorded last week.

He added that Kyiv was “doing everything necessary” to protect the town of Toretsk, 29 miles east of Pokrovsk, which has seen an intensified Russian push as well.

Officials in the city on Monday ordered the forced evacuation of families with children from Pokrovsk, where 53,000 civilians including 4,000 children remain.

Civilians have “a week or two, no more,” Serhiy Dobriak, the head of Pokrovsk’s military administration warned, as he urged civilians to get out as soon as possible.

If the city were to fall, it would be the largest population centre taken since the eastern city Bakhmut fell to Russia in May 2023 .

Live Reporting

Related stories, thanks for following today’s live blog.

Thank you for following today’s live coverage of the war in Ukraine.

We’ll be back soon with more updates and analysis from the conflict.

Starmer responds to Zelensky’s criticism over Storm Shadow missiles

Keir Starmer’s government has insisted there is no change on the UK’s position on Ukraine using Storm Shadow missiles inside Russia despite criticism from Volodymyr Zelensky.

The Ukrainian president complained on Sunday that British support was “slowing down” as his forces continued their unprecedented incursion into Russia’s Kursk region.

No. 10 said on Monday that there had been “no change in the UK’s position on that (Storm Shadow) specifically”, upholding the Conservative’s ban, even though Mr Zelensky called it “crucial” to lift restrictions.

Other weapons supplied by Britain, including Challenger 2 tanks, have been used as part of the Kursk invasion.

It follows ongoing concerns that the use of UK-made Storm Shadows to strike targets deep into Russia could lead to an escalation with nuclear-armed Moscow.

Former US soldier wanted on child pornography charges joins Russian military

A former American soldier wanted on charges of child pornography in the US has confirmed that he has joined the Russian military. 

Wilmer Puello-Mota, who served in the US air force for 10 years, said he does not consider himself to be a traitor, despite his country’s vehement support of Ukraine in fighting Russia. 

“The United States and Russia aren’t at war,” Mr Puello-Mota said in a video posted by Russia’s ministry of defence on Monday.

Modi to serve as messenger between Putin and Zelensky - report

Narendra Modi, the Indian prime minister, will serve as a messenger between Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelensky during his visit to Ukraine this week, US media has reported. 

While Mr Modi turned down the idea of him acting as an official mediator, he has reportedly agreed to share messages between the two leaders, Bloomberg reported on Monday. 

The Indian foreign ministry confirmed today that Mr Modi will visit Ukraine on Aug 23 for the first time since the war broke out. 

Ukraine’s advances into Kursk since Aug 7

Since launching its unprecedented invasion of Kursk nearly two weeks ago, Ukraine claims it has taken control of 1,150 sq km of land across more than 80 settlements.

It was the first time Russia experienced an invasion since the Second World War, a move which Kyiv said on Monday was designed to create a “buffer zone” to prevent further Moscow attacks.

A key part of this has been the destruction of three bridges that cross a strategically important river in Russia’s border region.

Their destruction - detailed in locations below - has left Moscow with few options to bring supplies across the water.

George Clooney’s ‘undesirable’ foundation banned from Russia

George Clooney’s foundation has been banned from operating inside Russia after Moscow accused the Hollywood star and his wife of discrediting the country “on a Hollywood scale”. 

“The activities of the foreign non-governmental organisation Clooney Foundation for Justice, USA (’Clooney Foundation for Justice’) have been deemed undesirable on the territory of our country,” the Prosecutor General’s Office of the Russian Federation said on Monday.

According to its website, the Clooney Foundation for Justice has been “actively investigating war crimes in Ukraine” and “crimes against humanity” committed by Russia in Ukraine.

Its stated aim is to “trigger criminal prosecutions and bring justice to the survivors”.

India confirms Modi visit date

Earlier we reported that Narendra Modi, the Indian prime minister, will visit Ukraine for the first time since war broke out in 2022.

India’s foreign ministry has now confirmed that Mr Modi will visit Ukraine on Aug 23.

The announcement follows Mr Modi’s meeting with Vladimir Putin last month.

Ukraine ‘destroys third crucial bridge in Kursk’

Ukraine has destroyed a third bridge that crosses a strategically important river in Russia’s Kursk region, Moscow has claimed.

The bridge, located near the village of Karzyzh, was the final permanent structure crossing the river Seym, leaving Moscow with few options to bring supplies across the water.

It comes after the head of Ukraine’s air force, Mykola Oleshchuk, published two videos showing air strikes on two other bridges across the river near the towns of Glushkovo and Zvannoe.

Analysts have said their destruction could help Kyiv consolidate its control on the roughly 1,100 sq km of territory it has captured during an unprecedented incursion into Russian soil.

Western analysts believe that the only route Russia has to reinforce and resupply its forces south of the river is a temporary pontoon, which is close to the destroyed bridge near Glushkovo.

Ukraine did not immediately claim responsibility for the apparent strike.

Moscow to add 200,000 troops by end of year - report

Russia will have added 200,000 extra troops to its armed forces by the end of the year, Ukraine’s deptuy defence minister has suggested.

This would see Moscow’s troops level rise from the current level of 600,000 to 800,000, Forbes reported on Monday. 

‘No change’ in UK position on Ukraine using Storm Shadow missiles

There has been no change in the UK’s position on Ukraine using Storm Shadow missiles inside Russia, Sir Keir Starmer’s spokesperson has said. 

Volodymyr Zelensky, the Ukrainian President, has repeatedly asked for permission to use the weapons, which he believes could help Kyiv win the war. 

Asked whether Ukraine is permitted to use the missiles in Kursk, a No 10 spokesperson said: “We are providing military aid to support Ukraine’s clear right to self-defence.”

There has been “no change in the UK’s position on that (Storm Shadow) specifically”, she added. 

More than 121,000 people evacuated from Kursk

More than 121,000 people have been evacuated from Kursk since Kyiv launched its invasion nearly two weeks ago, Russia’s emergencies ministry said on Monday. 

Moscow targeting Signal to prevent Putin criticism, says MoD

Russian authorities have restricted access to the popular messaging app Signal in a bid to prevent private hostility towards Vladimir Putin’s regime, the UK Ministry of Defence has said. 

Moscow said that access to the app had been limited to “prevent the use of the messenger for extremist or terrorist purposes”. 

Others have suggested that access has been limited to stop Russians spreading information about Kyiv’s invasion into Kursk, which the MoD describes as “unlikely”. 

The MoD said on Monday: “The restriction is likely meant to enhance the Russian authorities’ capacity to monitor and limit the communications of private citizens opposed to the Putin regime.”

Latest Defence Intelligence update on the situation in Ukraine - 19 August 2024. Find out more about Defence Intelligence's use of language: https://t.co/dMKKXwAFgP #StandWithUkraine 🇺🇦 pic.twitter.com/B3i0eAgERu — Ministry of Defence 🇬🇧 (@DefenceHQ) August 19, 2024

Watch: Russian oil depot fire rages after Ukrainian drone strike

A fire at an oil storage depot deep inside Russia is still raging, more than 24 hours after it was attacked by Ukrainian drones.

Russian authorities blamed the blaze at the facility on the outskirts of Proletarsk – a city in the southern Rostov region – on fallen debris after the drones were intercepted by air defence units early on Sunday morning.

“It stored oil and petroleum products that were also supplied to the needs of the Russian occupation army,” Ukraine’s military said in a statement on Sunday, confirming the successful strike.

Russia ‘blackmailing the world’, says Zelensky

Russia is “blackmailing the world” with its control of Zaporizhzhia NPP, the largest nuclear power plant in Europe, Volodymyr Zelensky said on Monday.

Mr Zelensky said Moscow’s control of the power plant “poses a fundamental threat to the radiation safety of our country, all of Europe, and the world”.

“Russia is blackmailing the world with the threat of a catastrophe at the ZNPP,” the Ukrainian president said.

“Only the return of the plant to Ukrainian control will ensure full compliance with all safety standards and normalise the situation around the ZNPP.”

Ukraine orders evacuation of families in Moscow target city

Families with children in Pokrovsk were ordered by Ukrainian officials on Monday to evacuate the eastern city amid rapid Russian advances.

“We are starting the forced evacuation of families with children from the Pokrovsk community,” Donetsk governor Vadym Filashkin said.

As one of Ukraine’s main defensive strongholds and logistics hubs, Pokrovsk has been a key target for Moscow for several months.

Analysts believe its capture would compromise Kyiv’s defensive abilities and key supply routes. 

It comes after Moscow claimed it had taken control of the town Zalizne, also in Donetsk. 

US ordered attack on Nord Stream pipeline, claims Moscow

Washington “gave the command” for attacks on the Nord Stream gas pipelines to go ahead, Russia’s foreign minister has said.

“It is clear that to carry out such a terrorist attack, there was a command from the very top, as they say, the very top for the West is, of course, Washington,” Sergei Lavrov told Izvestia news outlet on Monday.

It follows a report that Volodymyr Zelensky, the Ukrainian President, authorised a plan to attack the pipelines, before being asked to call it off by the CIA.

German authorities last week issued an arrest warrant for a Ukrainian citizen named “Volodymyr Z” as part of their investigation.

Zelensky reveals aim of Kursk invasion

Volodymyr Zelensky has revealed for the first time that the objective of Ukraine’s operation in Kursk is to create a buffer zone.

The Ukrainian president had previously said that the purpose of the invasion, which was launched on Aug 6, was to protect communities in the bordering Sumy region from constant shelling.

“It is now our primary task in defensive operations overall – to destroy as much Russian war potential as possible and conduct maximum counter-offensive actions,” Mr Zelensky said on Sunday evening.

“This includes creating a buffer zone on the aggressor’s territory – our operation in the Kursk region.”

Ukraine’s armed forces claimed on Sunday it had destroyed a key bridge over the Seym River in Kursk, which is used to supply Russian forces. The bridge was the second attacked by Ukraine since Friday.

Moscow ‘not ready’ for peace talks with Ukraine

Moscow is not yet ready to hold peace talks with Ukraine, a Russian presidential aide has said. 

Yuri Ushakov said on Monday that peace talks were not possible due to Kyiv’s recent attack on Russia’s Kursk border region. 

Ms Ushakov, speaking as part of a video statement broadcast by the SHOT news outlet, added that its previous peace proposals had not been withdrawn.

Moscow previously said peace talks would only take place if Kyiv recognises Russian sovereignty over the regions it annexed in 2022. 

Pictured: Collapsed bridge after Ukrainian strike along River Seym

Moscow claims Ukraine hit third Kursk bridge

Moscow has claimed that Ukraine struck and damaged the third and final bridge on the River Seym in Kursk on Sunday, the Reuters news agency reported. 

The first was attacked on Friday near the town of Glushkovo, while a second appeared to have been damaged on Saturday near the Russian town of Zvannoye.

Kyiv has sought to disrupt Moscow’s supply routes by destroying key bridges which are used to resupply Russian forces.

Kursk invasion ‘game changer’, says US Senator

Ukraine’s invasion of Kursk could be a game changer in the course of the war between Russia and Ukraine, Mark Kelly, the senator for Arizona, has said. 

Mr Kelly, who had been in the running to be Kamala Harris’ running mate in the US presidential election, said on Sunday that the “unpredictable” nature of the offensive “could really change the tide of how this conflict’s gonna play out”. 

Speaking on CBS’ “Face the Nation”, Mr Kelly also confirmed he was comfortable with US weapons being used on Russian soil. 

“The Ukrainians were illegally attacked by Vladimir Putin,” he said.

“This incursion, and I’ll just, let’s characterise it that way for now. I don’t think the Ukrainians want to intentionally hold Russian territory for a long period of time, but this really set Putin back on his heels,” the senator added. 

Pictured: Ukrainian supporters protest ahead of Democratic convention

Ukrainian supporters were pictured waving the country’s flags as they made their way through the streets of Chicago ahead of this week’s Democratic National Convention. 

Last month, the Ukrainian Congress Committee of America (UCCA) announced that the month of August in Chicago would be dedicated to Ukraine. 

India’s Modi to visit Ukraine

Narendra Modi, the Indian prime minister, will visit Ukraine, the country’s foreign ministry has said. 

It will be Mr Modi’s first trip to Ukraine since Russia launched its invasion in 2022.

It follows his meeting with Vladimir Putin in Moscow last month. 

Elon Musk denies ‘gifting’ Tesla Cybertruck to Chechen warlord

Elon Musk has denied gifting a Cybertruck to a Chechen warlord who filmed himself driving the Tesla vehicle around Grozny in Russia over the weekend. 

Ramzan Kadyrov posted the footage over the weekend alongside the caption: “Elon, thank you! Come to Grozny, I will receive you as my most dear guest!”

He added that he would send the Cybertruck to the battlefield to help Russian forces continue its invasion of Ukraine. 

Mr Kadyrov’s post sparked rumours that Mr Musk gifted the staunch Putin ally the vehicle, which the Tesla founder has firmly denied. 

He wrote on X: “Are you seriously so r******d that you think I donated a Cybertruck to a Russian general? That’s amazing.”

He added: “Yet another example of how much the legacy media lies.” 

Kadyrov said he received a Tesla Cybertrack from Elon Musk. He promised to send it to the "special military operation" zone and attached a machine gun to it. "Elon, thank you! Come to Grozny, I will receive you as the most dear guest! I do not think that our Russian MFA will be… pic.twitter.com/m72fg2G2PU — Anton Gerashchenko (@Gerashchenko_en) August 17, 2024

‘No holidays in war’, Zelensky warns Starmer

Volodymyr Zelensky has warned Sir Keir Starmer that there are “no holidays in war” in a call for British weapons deliveries to be accelerated.

The Ukrainian president also singled out France and the United States as he seeks to replenish his forces involved in the ambitious incursion into Russian territory in the Kursk region.

“Our guys are doing great on all fronts”, he said in his nightly address late on Sunday. “However, there is a need for faster delivery of supplies from our partners. We strongly ask for this. “There are no vacations in war. Decisions are needed, as is timely logistics for the announced aid packages. I especially address this to the United States, the United Kingdom, and France.” His direct warning to Sir Keir came after the wartime leader had complained British support was “slowing down”, and one of the president’s top aides set out Kyiv’s most comprehensive argument for Storm Shadow cruise missiles to be used to strike targets inside Russia.

Notably, Mr Zelensky did not mention Germany in his appeal after it emerged Berlin was struggling to find the funds to continue supporting Kyiv militarily in the coming years.

Moscow moves 5,000 troops out of Ukraine to defend Kursk - report

Moscow has moved at least 5,000 troops out of Ukraine to defend Kursk, military analysts have suggested. 

As many as eleven battalions may have been redeployed out of Ukraine, according to the Institute for the Study of War, a US-based think tank. 

This includes troops from occupied Donetsk and Vovchansk, Kharkiv. 

Watch: Ukraine destroys second Kursk bridge

Ukraine said on Sunday it had struck a second key bridge in the Kursk region. 

Kyiv has sought to disrupt Moscow’s supply routes as its invasion of Russia stretched through its second week.

“Minus one more bridge,” Mykola Oleshchuk, the Ukrainian air force commander said, publishing an aerial video of a blast tearing through a bridge near the Russian town of Zvannoye.

Starmer accused of weakening support for Ukraine

Sir Keir Starmer is under fresh pressure to lift restrictions on Ukraine’s use of Storm Shadow missiles after Volodymyr Zelensky said British support was “slowing down”, write Ben Riley-Smith and Tony Diver.

Four former Tory defence secretaries told The Telegraph Sir Keir should do more to help Ukraine, after John Healey, his Defence Secretary, said Britain’s support would be “iron clad” under Labour.

That includes Sir Michael Fallon, who served under Theresa May, Ben Wallace, who served under Boris Johnson, as well as Sir Gavin Williamson and Grant Shapps. 

Read the full story here.

Ukraine destroys 11 Russian drones overnight

Ukraine destroyed all 11 drones that Moscow launched overnight, including on Kyiv, its air force said on Monday.

The drones were destroyed over the Mykolaiv, Cherkasy, Vinnytsia, Kyiv, Dnipropetrovsk, Kharkiv, Sumy and Donetsk regions, the air force revealed. 

There were no immediate reports of any damage due to the attack or falling drone debris.

Welcome to our live coverage

Good morning and welcome to our live coverage. 

We’re bringing you the latest updates from the Ukraine war.

• Watch: Ukraine strike destroys second Kursk bridge
• Ukraine 'heading for partial ceasefire talks' before Kursk offensive
• Germany plans to cut Ukraine aid to just 6pc of current total
• Russia-Ukraine war,
• Vladimir Putin,
• Volodymyr Zelenskyy,
• Russia-Ukraine invasion live
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