yacht drone footage

Yachts from an Aerial View

If there's one universal status symbol of wealth, it would definitely have to be the yacht.  When it comes to living the luxury lifestyle, taking a yacht for a cruise is a must!  While out on the water, these contributors made sure to fire up their drones to capture the decadent yacht-life from an aerial view.  Whether they're cruising upon seas that reflect warm colors of the setting sun, or bumping with music for dance parties, or serving as a spa getaway, the wayfaring water vessels featured in these drone videos make for some serious #yachtporn.  Sail away with these aerial views of yachts voyaging across all bodies of water!  Aerial Photo: " Sailing Yacht A " by AirVuz contributor and pilot Mali Sokol .

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The HMY Britannia

The royal yacht britannia | leith, scotland.

• almost 7 years ago

Check out this fantastic drone video of one of the world's most famous yachts, compliments of Play North.  It's the HMY Britannia, which was the official yacht of the English Royal Family from 1953 to 1997.  Famously, the ship transported Queen Elizabeth through the newly-opened St. Lawrence Seaway in 1959 to Chicago. Even more famously, in 1981 the Britannia took Prince Charles and the late Princess Diana on their honeymoon.  The ship is now docked at the port of Leith in Edinburgh, Scotland, where it's open to visitors.

Lürssen-built yacht opera.

• 12 months ago

AirVuz contributor and drone pilot Mali Sokol brings us this rare aerial footage of one of the world's largest yachts cruising Croatia's Dalmatian Coast on the Adriatic Sea.  Launched in 2023 and built by the German yachtmaker Lürssen, the Opera has an overall length of 480 ft. (146 m).  One of the dozen largest private yachts afloat as of 2023, it's valued at around US $450 million.  The Opera displaces an incredible 12.5k gross tons, and its six giant Wärtsilä engines permit it to reach speeds of up to 25 knots (29 mph, 46 km/h).     

Superyacht oasis on the amalfi coast, superyacht oasis on italy's amalfi coast (2016).

• mediabymartin
• over 7 years ago

This drone video of a VERY high-end power yacht will get your attention.  Mrinab was able to get a drone over the superyacht OASIS as it was cruising off of Italy's Amalfi coast.  With multiple sundecks, sophisticated communications gear, and a giant collapsable slide, this watercraft strains the definition of the word "boat".  Prepare to be dazzled by the epic views of this stunning white boat as it plies the deep blue waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, which is an extension of the Mediterranean.

Superyacht cloudbreak on the dalmatian coast, yacht cloudbreak.

• over 3 years ago

Check out this fantastic drone video of the ultra-luxury yacht "Cloudbreak" moored on Croatia's Dalmatian Coast, compliments of AirVuz contributor and pilot Mali Sokol.  Built by the German shipyard Abeking & Rasmussen, the 75 meter (just under 250 ft.) behemoth is owned by the charter company SuperYachts Monaco.  Its six staterooms can accommodate a dozen guests, who can come and go via helicopter.  With up to 22 crew members, it doesn't come cheap - as of 2020, the weekly rate started at 750k Euros or around USD$900k.  

Yachts in the hamptons of new york, yachts of sag harbor 2023.

• HamptonsDrone
• 11 months ago

Located in the between the two "forks" of Long Island, New York, a bit over 100 mi. (around 175 km) due east of New York City, the quaint village of Sag Harbor (which is actually split between the towns of East Hampton and South Hampton) has evolved into a prime summer getaway for the rich and famous.  In addition to multi-million dollar homes, that means multi-million dollar yachts, and lots of them.  Check out some of the Sag Habor resident and visiting yacht fleet in this excellent drone video by AirVuz contributor HamptonsDrone.  

The superyacht excellence, $130m super yacht excellence p4p 4k.

• Smith Cinematic Ae...
• about 4 years ago

What does a US $130 million yacht look like?  You can see one by drone in this amazing piece by top AirVuz contributor and drone pilot PO3SMITH.  He managed to use his DJI Phantom 4 Pro drone to film the Excellence cruising through the Cape Cod Canal in Massachusetts.  Launched in 2019, the superyacht has a length of 80 meters or about 265 ft.  Built by german yachtmaker Abeking & Rasmussen, the can accommodate 14 guests with a crew of 20.  The sleek vessel cruises at around 14 knots and has a top speed of 17 knots.  

Yacht party on croatia's zrce island, zrce beach 2017 official after movie.

• iamjantrnka
• over 6 years ago

Zrce Beach, on the Croatia's northern Adriatic Sea coast, has become a prime spring break destination.  This is a place of DJ’s, yachts, water sports, pool parties, and a few adult beverages later.  Wished you hadn't grown up?  Join the fun and watch it all go down with an exclusive view from above.  Contributor Jantrnkaproductions uses a drone to treat us to a bird's eye view of this Mediterranean party paradise, which is still somewhat less well known than the Dalmatian Coast further south.  

Fpv yacht chasing in sardinia, sealife yacht uncut in sardinia - caprera island.

• salva.tours
• about 1 year ago

The Italian island of Sardinia is known in part for its legendary yachting scene.  In this amazing first person view (FPV) drone video by top AirVuz contributor salva.tours, you will follow a 65 foot power yacht as it cruises the waters around northern Sardinia.  The video was filmed around the island of Caprera, a "satellite" which is located just north of the much larger Sardinia.  The yacht is a Moira Model 65, which is made by the Italian shipyard Cantieri di Sarnico.  This video was picked for the FPV Pilots to Watch list.  

Croatia's yacht week, the yacht week - the love boat edit.

• over 5 years ago

Eight strangers gathered together to go aboard the Love Boat for Croatia's famous Yacht Week, and contributor jantrnkaproductions documented the experience with his drone.  The yacht crew was made up of individuals from various corners of the planet, and after one week together at sea, they became one big family.  Watch as they live it up on this stunning yacht cruising the Dalmatian Coast, with fine food and wine, gorgeous sea views, and the start of lifetime friendships.  

The superyacht moonrise on the adriatic.

• almost 4 years ago

The Dalmatian Coast of Croatia in Southeastern Europe has emerged as one of the world's top yachting playgrounds.  With its historic ports like Split and Dubrovnik, as well as numerous islands, its waters are frequented by some of the world's richest people and their floating behemoths.  In this drone video by Mali Sokol, you'll get a bird's eye view of one of the world's largest yachts: the Moonrise, cruising near Split. The largest ship yet to be launched by Dutch yachtmaker Feadship.  The ship has a length of 100 meters or 328 ft..

Yacht on the french riviera, yacht charter in st. tropez.

• about 7 years ago

Contributor AurelBaud brought a drone along on a yacht cruise on the French Riviera and created this amazing video from the experience.  The video opens with an amazing shot of the legendary port of St. Tropez, which was the port from where the yacht Mangusta 82 was launched. From there, you will follow along like a bird flying over the stunningly beautiful Cote d'Azur, the world's first true  vacation beach spot, and the aquatic activities of the rich and famous who frequent here.  

Vandutch yacht in miami, out for a spin on the luxury vandutch yacht.

• NonexistentJay

VanDutch is one of the newest names in the exclusive world of power yachts.  The Dutch company manufactures yacht lines in the 40, 48, 56, and 75 foot classes.  Naturally enough, one of its largest markets is the Miami-Fort Lauderdale area of southern Florida.  In this first person view (FPV) drone video by AirVuz contributor Nonexistent Jay, you'll be treated to some FPV footage of a VanDutch craft plying the waters of the Gold Coast.  This video was picked for the FPV Pilots to Watch list in November, 2020.   

Artefact superyacht, yacht artefact.

• about 2 years ago

AirVuz contributor and pilot Mali Sokol brings us this fantastic drone video of a superyacht floating in the Adriatic Sea off the coast of Split, Croatia.  It's called the Artefact, and it was launched in 2020 by the German shipyard Nobiskrug.  The US $150 million vessel is about 265 ft. long (80 m) and can accommodate a dozen guests as well as 24 crew members.  Powered by two Caterpillar turbines, the Artefact has a range of 6k nautical miles and incorporates a number of environmentally progessive features.  

More yacht week from croatia, the yacht week - croatia 2018, croatia's yacht week has become one of the most important annual events in the rarefied world of international yachting.  it's actually one of a half dozen or so yacht weeks held around the world.  the croatian version, which is the largest in europe, is basically a seven day floating party along the country's famed dalmatian coast in the adriatic sea.  contributor jantrnkaproductions used a combination of ground camera and drone footage to record the festivities in the summer of 2018., dilbar by fpv: world's largest yacht, worlds largest mega yacht "dilbar" - ds aerial video productions, it's less than 30 seconds but this first person view (fpv) video of one of the world's largest yachts by airvuz contributor ds aerial video productions will blow you away.  he managed to use an fpv-equipped racing drone to film the dilbar, which was built by the german shipyard lürssen and launched in 2015.  this beast is 156 meters long (about 512 ft.), with a 24 meter beam (79 ft.) and a 6 meter draft (about 20 ft.).  displacing almost 16k gross tons, it's believed to be the sixth-largest yacht in the world by volume as of 2020., related drone video collections, drone videos of powerboats.

• Updated: 12 months ago

Drone Videos of Sailboats

Drone videos of cruise ships.

• Updated: 6 months ago

Drone Videos of Naval Ships

More yachts from an aerial view, a day in paradise , lefkada - porto katsiki beach.

Croatia Yacht Week 2017 | Week 23

• anthonytori

Yacht Social Club Meetup by Drone 4k

• over 4 years ago

Little Spark Adventure @ Keppel Bay ( Featuring World's biggest trimaran superyacht White Rabbit )

Yacht party, av news: yachting with drones.

• AirVūz News
• over 8 years ago

INDEPENDANCE WHITE PARTY 2017 Party Till Drop on Yacht

• paulusandry

Yacht Promo Video

Ferrari 488 GTB meeting Yachts

• almost 6 years ago

Yacht Regatta at North Berwick

• Albacross Imaging

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• Stunning sailing shots: how to choose and best use a drone

Sailing is an unforgettable experience, but why not enhance your sailing memories with stunning visuals?! Our tips on how to take drone footage on your boat will help you get the perfect shot. Plus, we'll show you how to minimise risks and prevent drone accidents at sea, so you won't lose your valuable data.

Choose a drone for sailing that is waterproof

At first glance, it might seem obvious, but there are dozens of boaters who have destroyed their drone in the waves. So if you're serious about capturing your sailing experiences at sea, a waterproof drone with a built-in camera is essential. As well as being able to shoot your sailing journey worry-free, the drone can be used to take footage of other fun activities, such as snorkelling, kiteboarding or paddleboarding.

YACHTING.COM TIP: Wondering what other activities to combine with sailing? Whether you enjoy water sports, such as snorkelling and kayaking, or prefer to explore islands and towns on foot or by bike — we've put together a list of the best. Try out our  Top 12 fun activities to do on a sailing holiday and make the most of your yachting vacation.

When choosing your drone, you should focus on a few other features such as the weight of the drone , photo resolution , zoom , lens  aperture  and  image stabilization . The formats in which the drone takes photos or shoots video are also important — the more of them the device supports, the better.

It is also advisable to choose a device that can  land on the surface  of the water. Also, consider the so-called home point (HP) — a fixed point for the drone to return to if it loses connection to the remote (something quite difficult to find at sea). In regattas, for example, this tends to be the judges' boat or the nearest piece of land. Having a home point also allows you to safely film from a greater distance. Keep in mind that mid-range drones have a signal range of about 5 km (individual models vary) but, even so, it's always best to keep your drone within sight.

A great choice for sailors is a device where you can set a dynamic home point  — it continuously updates the position of the home point according to the position of the remote.

Another key aspect is flight time and battery level , especially in open sea. If the battery level indicates less than 30%, you should bring the drone close to the HP (home point) so that it can get an improved signal and land better. If you're planning to land it on a moving boat, you should start flying the drone back when the battery is at 50%. If intend to do a lot of flying, it definitely pays to have spare batteries to hand.

YACHTING.COM TIP: Don't have your drone yet?  You  can find drones with a camera in online stores, such as on Amazon, or search for your local  specialist shop . Believe us, you'll have a lot of fun with it when sailing and capture some great shots. Just remember that if the drone has a built-in camera, it is necessary in the EU to register the device and the pilot.

Filming with a drone when sailing

The biggest challenge when filming with a drone is to get good quality, detailed shots without crashing into anything on the boat. Professional videographers recommend filming from a height above the highest mast of the floating boat, about 10 to 20 metres up. If you'd like to get some really action-packed footage, take advantage of manoeuvres such as when turning during a race. As well as the action of the crew, you may even be able to capture boats battling it out.

YACHTING.COM TIP: Would you rather be steering the boat than filming it with a drone? Get your  skipper's licence with us  .

More useful sailing tips:

It's easier with two people.

Every shot requires cooperation and although you may not need a whole film crew with a director, cameraman and sound engineer when filming your voyage, it's still worth having a helper. They can help you track the drone in the air, hold the drone as it takes off and lands, and generally assess the situation to determine when the drone is "fired up" enough to take off safely.

Your assistant can also help you in situations where the drone might hit the mast, shrouds (the steel cables holding the mast up) and other lines on board. You won't be able to see these on the screen or glasses connected to the drone. And, as you'll be focused on guiding it, you will need someone to give you perspective, even if your drone has to capability to automatically avoid obstacles.

YACHTING.COM TIP: Often when sailing, especially with a small boat, the only way to land a drone is to catch it in your hand. This can be quite an adrenaline rush. The "catcher" should wear a cap to prevent the risk of facial injuries and some more substantial gloves .

Tips on shooting videos with a drone

Although today's audiovisual technologies make it easy to take high quality photos and videos, it pays to know some basic guidelines to make your yachting holiday footage even better. Whether you're an experienced sailor or looking for the perfect sailing destination for beginners , we've got some tips on how to film your dream holiday:

• Think about your shots. You want to create an interesting video for family or friends, but you don't want to spend hours going over the rough footage.
• Before you launch your drone into the air, take a look around for the most interesting locations to film. Also, make sure the weather is clear. There's only so much wind your drone can handle and you don't want it to get blown away.
• Consider the resolution of the video. Will HD resolution be enough or do you want to project the video in Full HD (1920x1080) or 4K ? Do you have a computer with enough capacity to handle the raw footage or would you like to shoot the video on your smartphone?

• Find a helper to help you launch and land your drone, and generally help you with shot selection. It's also worth having a pair of gloves ready in case either of you have to catch the drone.
• Don't forget to monitor your battery level, set a low battery warning or set it to "Return to home" or "Hover".
• A drone makes a good servant, but a terrible master. Make sure that you are in control.

YACHTING.COM TIP: Already have a drone  as part of your sailing kit? Check out what else  to bring with you in our guide — Sailing essentials: don't forget to pack these things .

From the deck of which boat will you capture stunning scenery?

Got all your boating gear ready and just need a sailboat? You've come to the right place. We'll find the perfect one together!

Denisa Nguyenová

Faq drones on the boat.

• Yachting World
• Digital Edition

How to fly a drone like a pro and land it safely back onboard your yacht

• July 25, 2019

There’s a fine art to using a drone at sea – Terysa Vanderloo explains how to avoid crashing yours into the ocean

Drones can provide spectacular overhead shots while under way. Photo: Andy Schell: 59 North Sailing

With the advent of small, affordable and user-friendly drones , many cruising sailors have adopted them as a way of achieving really impressive and professional-looking photographs and video.

I speak from experience when I say this is far easier said than done, and flying a drone while under sail is a challenging task. However, there are proven techniques and tricks for flying a drone while under way – without it ending up in the drink. I spoke to three drone-piloting experts for their advice.

Andy Schell and his wife Mia run 59° North Sailing, which offers adventure sailing charters on their Swan 48 and Swan 59. They’re also fantastic photographers. Andy uses the DJI Phantom 4 Pro , which he believes is the best drone for flying from a boat because of the legs it has on its underside, which provide the perfect handles for catching the drone – without the very real fear of getting fingers caught in the propellers.

Note: We may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site, at no extra cost to you. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence.

An on board reporter flying a Phantom 4 from the stern of a Volvo Ocean Race yacht. Photo: Jesus Renedo

My partner Nick and I have the smaller, compact version, the DJI Mavic Pro , which has no legs for landing: I can attest to the nerve-wracking experience of catching it from a moving boat and agree wholeheartedly that the Phantom would be a better option for flying while under way. The advantage of the Mavic is that it’s far smaller and folds up to an even more compact shape – we live on a 38ft monohull, and so stowage space is at a premium.

Brian Trautman, best known as the skipper of SV Delos on the popular YouTube sailing channel, has been flying drones since 2014. Since then, he and his crew have flown many drones in different conditions.

Brian has both the Phantom and Mavic on board Delos and also recommends the Phantom while flying from the boat as it is far easier to catch, as well as being more powerful, which helps in windy conditions. Their Mavic is used primarily for land-based excursions.

Brian Trautman (centre) prepares to fly a DJI Phantom 4 Pro

Therefore, which drone you choose may come down to whether or not you have the space to store a chunkier model like the DJI Phantom, and whether or not you want a drone that is portable. It’s worth noting that there’s a cost difference between the two: the Phantom is cheaper than the Mavic.

Another model that might be of interest is the DJI Spark , which is even smaller and more compact than the Mavic – not much bigger or heavier than a sunglasses case. Nick and I have successfully flown a Spark from a catamaran in light winds before, although it’s no good for windier days and also doesn’t have 4k capabilities.

I also spoke to Richard Edwards, a professional videographer who was one of the onboard reporters responsible for some of the incredible footage during the last Volvo Ocean Race . He suggests a simple yet ingenious solution to catching a drone such as the Mavic or Spark, which is to glue a light plastic mini tripod to its underside.

Read YBW’s guide to the best drones for sailing

Once you’ve purchased your drone, the next step is to get used to flying it. Clearly, practising from land is a wise starting point, so you can get used to how it handles as well as hone your skills for catching it.

Brian starts off by flying the drone in circles around trees or houses. “If you can do a complete 360° flying manually around a stationary object while still keeping a constant distance and the object in frame then that is something to be very proud of,” he advises. “Once you’ve mastered this, then it’s time to try the same thing on a boat – which is much harder.”

After you’ve mastered the basics, Andy suggests flying the drone on a breezy day in manual mode with the collision sensors and ‘return to home’ function turned off, since that’s how you’ll have to do it on the boat. He suggests: “Practice launching and catching it by hand – someone on the controls, another person on the launch and catch, ideally wearing sunglasses and thin gloves as safety protection.”

Raymarine’s Axiom UAV app can automate launch, in-flight navigation and return-to-boat for DJI drones

The next logical step is to practice flying the drone from the boat while at anchor to get used to the space you’ll be working with. However, at some point, it will be time to put your skills to the test and fly the drone from the boat while under way.

Andy says: “You need two people: a pilot and a catcher. We launch off the stern quarter, opposite the radar pole; that way, all the pilot has to do is fly straight up. The drone will want to hover in place and the boat will just sail away from it safely. Flying it downwind is far easier on battery life. Upwind, the drone can handle about 20 knots, but it’s harder to land on a heel and the battery won’t last as long.”

Richard also flies from the stern. “To launch, have a person hold it above head height off the back of the boat – it’s irrelevant if it’s downwind or upwind. Power up and immediately ascend to keep clear of rigging, and the boat speed should naturally mean it flies away.”

Flying a drone from a catamaran is generally easier as there is more space to launch and catch it and the boat itself is more stable. The trampolines may provide more room than the stern of the boat, but the disadvantage here is that there is still a danger of the drone colliding with the rigging. Again, choose a launch spot where there is clearance and the boat will be moving away from the drone once it’s in the air.

Article continues below…

Tested: 5 of the best drones for filming your yacht

Drones have really advanced over the past few years, with anyone now able to try their hand at piloting a…

Safe landings

When it comes time to bring the drone back to the boat and catch it, Richard advises already having a plan in place before taking off (this is also where you find out if you turned off the ‘return to home’ function). “Never land anywhere but at the stern of the boat and come in from behind, never from the side or overhead, otherwise you’ll be disorientated and hit the boat.”

Andy and Mia also catch from the stern. Andy says: “It’s easier to land than you think. “We start coming home at 60% battery. You’ve got to fly it in backwards, because the forward vision sensors will stop it from getting close enough to catch. “Keep the boat sailing straight and bring the drone in. If you need to re-do it, just let go of the controls. The drone will stop and hover, and the boat will safely sail away from it. Then bring it in for another try.”

On a catamaran, the trampolines may look tempting as a catching area, however it’s worth considering Andy and Richard’s advice: the safest option is the stern as the drone will be able to approach from behind, it will be clear of all rigging, and the boat is always moving away from the drone, meaning multiple attempts to catch it can more easily be made.

Drones can capture photos and video that were once possible only from a helicopter. Photo: Andy Schell / 59 North Sailing

Brian emphasises how difficult it can be to judge distances between the drone and the boat when both are moving. In fact, Brian usually flies the drone from the dinghy, which deals neatly with the danger of collision with the boat. “Most of the times I’ve crashed the drone have been trying to land while under way. I usually try to avoid this at all costs and prefer to fly from the dinghy. It’s much easier to land without worrying about the rigging.”

For cruising couples who are sailing short-handed this could be a challenge, although Brian and Karin, his wife, have managed it many times when it has just been the two of them on board. “Start simple and focus on simple movements,” Richard advises. “Most of all, have fun, but don’t underestimate the importance of safety and planning.”

Although it’s natural to worry about losing the drone overboard, Andy advises: “You won’t get the amazing shots if you don’t push the limits, so you’ve got to be prepared to lose the drone. If you absolutely cannot afford to lose it, then don’t fly it at sea!”

Drone specs

4k vs 1080?

This refers to the resolution of the image; 4k is actually 3840 x 2160 pixels and 1080 is 1920 x 1080 pixels. 4k is swiftly becoming the industry standard, however if all you want your photos and videos for is your own personal use or to post on social media, 1080 is perfectly fine.

Gimbal or stabilisation software?

Many drones these days will boast either a gimbal or electronic stabilisation. This is especially important for cruisers wanting to take video, however stabilisation will also help produce sharp photographs.

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Video: World’s Largest Charter Yacht ECLIPSE Filmed By Drone

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By Oliver Pearson   26 May 2016

Available for highly exclusive charter vacations, the 163m/533ft motor yacht ECLIPSE was filmed by an aerial drone as she was sat at anchor in the French Riviera earlier this month.

A famously private vessel, ECLIPSE has always been the preserve of a select few, with only a handful of images suggesting the kind of magic the British designer Terence Disdale has worked on her interior.

Built by the innovative German shipyard Blohm + Voss back in 2010, she was unsurprisingly named ‘Best Displacement Motor Yacht Of 3,000GT and Above’ as well as being the joint winner of the prestigious ‘Motor Yacht of the Year’ award at the World Superyacht Awards 2011.

With so much eminence and mystery surrounding her, it’s little wonder that she has generated an almost unprecedented curiosity amongst both industry players and charterers.

It was therefore to great excitement that the ‘French Riviera Water Toys’ company uploaded extensive drone footage of her as she joined the proceedings in Cannes earlier this month.

Indeed, the shrewd viewer will be able to discern the figures of both the 126m/414ft motor yacht OCTOPUS as well as the 84m/274ft superyacht SAVANNAH just a short distance away.

With so much to take in, the video of superyacht ECLIPSE is an all but inexhaustible resource

Offering a full panorama of motor yacht ECLIPSE as she dazzles in the Mediterranean sun, the footage begins by offering a profile of her starboard side before moving towards the fore and returning down her port side.

From here, the drone travels a little closer to the stern where the more eagle-eyed viewers will be able to catch a glimpse of her beach club.

In this way, not only are we treated to detailed views of her harmonious exterior lines, but also of her two helipads, tender garages, swim platform, and the various outdoor spaces spread across her various decks.

Obviously, with so much to take in, the video is an all but inexhaustible resource.

In order to find out more regarding ECLIPSE, and her availability, please speak with your preferred charter broker .

Alternatively, take a look at all Blohm + Voss yachts available for charter. Credit for the video: French Riviera Water Toys .

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163m Blohm + Voss 2010 / 2015

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Video: Drone footage of Motor Yacht A

This eye-catching film could be a clip from the new James Bond adventure Spectre but though it isn’t, like the British spy’s martinis, it is something to shake and stir.

This drone film has is, in fact, captured Motor Yacht A , one of the most arresting boats on the planet. Designed by Philippe Starck and built by Blohm and Voss , the yacht was captured at anchor off Portofino on the Italian Riviera , an hour’s drive east of Genoa.

Even visitors and residents of this picturesque fishing village, where evidence of the trappings of luxury is commonplace, would have to admit that A at anchor was a dramatic and special sight.

The boat was commissioned in 2004 by Russian billionaire Andrey Melnichenko, who is rumoured to be the owner of one of  the world's largest superyachts Sailing Yacht A  and made his considerable fortune in the chemical and energy industries.

There is no mistaking the original look of the superyacht, the trademark of Starck, who made his name challenging tradition during a long career that has seen him design many things from street furniture to hotels. The Frenchman has a love of the sea and also designed Venus , the superyacht owned by Steve Jobs, the late founder of Apple computers.

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Yacht drone footage: everything you need to know.

August 15, 2021

minute read

Yacht drone footage - NOVELA yacht charter in Croatia

The drone must be technically correct before the flight, and you must ensure that the weather and other conditions allow for safe flying, that all equipment is securely fastened, and that the drone can take off and land without difficulty. Furthermore, flying the drone must be done in compliance with the Republic of Croatia’s airspace rules and the terms of the Ordinance on unmanned aircraft systems.

Here we list tips and tricks on how you can manage a drone while chartering a yacht in Croatia:

Consult with the appropriate authorities in Croatia

Having a magnificent yacht drone footage in Croatia is easier than you thought and according to Croatia’s national aviation body , flying a drone in Croatia is allowed, but we recommend being informed of and comply with the drone laws. 

First, you need to know where you can operate a drone and where it is forbidden. Some unauthorized places can just turn off the signal of your drone, probably destroying it along the way. That is why you need to consult with the appropriate authorities. 

Here are some rules about flying a drone while chartering a yacht in Croatia:

• The remote pilot must maintain the drone at a safe distance from humans at all times.
• The maximum take-off mass of the drone is less than 25 kg (55 lbs).
• The drone must be labelled with one of the following class identification labels: 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4.
• The remote pilot must not fly the drone over 120 meters (400ft).
• The drone will not transport any dangerous goods and therefore will not transfer any items.

Let your crew members know about your toy

We all know that drone photos and videos are excellent social media content, but if you want to record them on your yacht, be sure to notify your broker and the captain. They can really assist you with abiding by Croatian drone laws and tips on how to operate a drone while the yacht is moving. 

Furthermore, one of your crew members could undoubtedly be a drone specialist and will assist with monitoring or recording, while your captain selects the finest spots for taking amazing yacht drone footage, that is otherwise unobtainable from human perspectives.

Do not compromise the privacy and security of others

Taking photos or videos can sometimes cause anxiety for other people, especially if they are enjoying their security and privacy on a chartered superyacht. Always ask your captain to take you to magnificent locations where you can take incredible yacht drone footage while being totally alone. Just as you do not want people in the video, they do not want to be in it either – this will be a win-win situation.

Find perfect spots visible only from the sky

Have you ever heard of the Croatian fingerprint island or the heart-shaped island, located in the middle of coastal Croatia? These two are perceivable as such only if you lift the drone into the air, observing them from a bird’s eye perspective on your chartered yacht. There are plenty of other Croatian attractions that are better observed from the sky, so let your captain prepare the list and your social media will explode.

We are bringing you the top 5 locations for yacht drone footage:

• Bavljenac – the fingerprint island
• Telašćica salt lake – on the island of Dugi Otok
• Kontesa shipwreck – the near island of Šolta
• Galešnjak – the heart-shaped island
• Bol – changing-shape beach on the island of Brač.

If you familiarize yourself with these natural wonders, you will conclude that the best option for recording these wonders is from the sky, using a drone. The opportunity to make such unusual and intriguing photos and videos from the skies is an almost unknown phenomenon. Charter a yacht in Croatia and enjoy taking pictures of beautiful landscapes, uninhabited islands, historical cities, and much more…

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Is a yacht connoisseur, agent, broker, local tour operator, destination manager, organizer ... a wholehearted company that will provide you with a list of luxury yachts available for charter in Croatia. Find all relevant information about your yacht charter & get in touch with us in order to book your dream superyacht.

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Environment | OC boaters urged to be on the lookout for…

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• Investigative Reporting

Environment

Environment | entangled humpback seen over weekend off south bay, was most recently spotted off dana point.

“It has barnacles and lice all over it,” said Justin Greenman, assistant stranding coordinator with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. “Those form when they are not diving deeply. It’s moving quickly, but is not in good health.”

The whale was first spotted on Saturday, July 13, off Redondo Beach, Greenman said. Then, later that day, off Rancho Palos Verdes.

A juvenile humpback whale was spotted off Rancho Palos Verdes on Saturday, July 13. The animal was entangled in rope that went around it tail and partially impacted one of its flukes. It was also dragging a 10-foot line with either a buoy or float. (Video grab by Mauricio Tassara/IG @empty_drone)

The whale appears to have a rope wrapped around its tail, and a line has been seen – spotted in drone footage – moving on top of and under one fluke.  The whale is trailing a buoy or float about 10 feet behind it and appears to be using mainly its flippers to propel itself.

Mauricio Tassara, a drone photographer from Torrance, was first alerted to the whale and its troubles by Chris Batts, a boat captain for Harbor Breeze Whale Watching Tours in Long Beach.

Tassara, who was on land, launched his drone and found the whale about 100 yards in front of the boat’s bow.

“It was kinda just cruising, not really moving fast,” he said, adding that his batteries ran out and he had to return the drone to land. Once he got it going again, he couldn’t find the whale because of the glare from the ocean, but then he suddenly saw it breach.

“It jumped 20 to 30 times,” he said, adding the footage was extra exciting because it was his first-ever humpback. “It was chin-slapping and stuck it’s pectoral fin up and splashed the water. It was bittersweet because it was entangled. The rope was wrapped around its tail and the right side (fluke) was kind of flopping down. But it kept jumping and doing its thing.”

On Sunday, July 14, Mark Girardeau, a local wildlife photographer on a vessel with Newport Coastal Adventure, said he spotted a whale off Crystal Cove State Park and noticed it was behaving oddly. He sent his drone up to see and also saw a rope wrapped around the animal’s tail

“I also noticed its fluke was not working great as the right fluke was completely limp and dangling; the whale was swimming using its pectoral flippers instead, which is not normal,” he said.

He last saw it off North Laguna Beach and sent the footage to rescue teams.

Capt. Steve Burkhalter with Dana Wharf Sportfishing and Whale Watching saw the whale on Monday, July 15,  about four miles off Salt Creek Beach. He reported it to NOAA, but teams were unable to reach the whale.

On Tuesday, July 16, Burkhalter continued to look for it and, this time, saw it about a mile south of where it was the day before.

“I saw a whale spout, but with the light, I wasn’t certain it was the same animal,” he said. “It was confirmed later.”

He said when he left the whale, two other charters were out there with the animal.

“The last report was there were some jet skiers who were driving aggressively and it wasn’t seen again,” he said.

Unlike gray whales, which typically migrate north and south, the humpback is not certain to continue south, though boats off San Diego County are on alert. It could circle back.

“We are on humpback watch,” said Donna Kalez, who operates the Dana Wharf charter.

If you see the struggling whale, do not approach or try to disentangle the lines. Officials ask that you stay with the whale, take photos, document it, and immediately call NOAA’s Entangled Whale Hotline 877-SOS-WHALE or hail USCG on CH 16.

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Ukraine-Russia war – live: Zelensky says working with Trump would be ‘hard’ as leaders expected to talk soon

LIVE – Updated at 23:07

Volodymyr Zelensky has said working with Donald Trump will be hard if the former US President is re-elected, “ but we are hard workers ”.

The Ukrainian president was asked about Mr Trump’s pick for vice president, JD Vance , who has previously said he “does not care” what happens in the conflict “one way or the other”.

“Maybe he really doesn’t understand what goes on in Ukraine , so we have to work with the United States ,” Mr Zelensky told the BBC.

Mr Zelensky is on Friday to become the first foreign leader to address the UK cabinet since Bill Clinton in 1997. He said he hoped Sir Keir Starmer ’s time as prime minister would be a “special” era in UK foreign policy. And he ruled out stepping down as prime minister until the war is over.

Sir Keir is expected to tell the Ukrainian leader that Britain will do more in the coming months to dent Russia ’s “war machine”, including agreeing a new defence export support treaty to help Kyiv draw on export finance.

Zelensky says he will have to work with the US

Trump and zelensky phone call likely today, sources say.

• Ukraine launches major drone attack on Crimea
• Germany to halve military aid for Ukraine in deepening crisis

German medic ‘linked to regiment defending Ukraine' sentenced to death by firing squad in Belarus

A German citizen who worked for the Red Cross and has since been linked to a volunteer regiment formed to defend Ukraine from Russia’s invasion has been sentenced to death by firing squad in Belarus.

Respected human rights group Viasna, whose imprisoned founder is a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, identified the man sentenced as Red Cross medic named Rico Krieger.

It said he was sentenced in late June in a closed trial for charges including mercenary activity, terrorism and creating an extremist group, in charges allegedly connected to an explosion intended to undermine public order. Where any explosion is claimed to have taken place is unclear.

Human rights activists said they believed the case concerns the Kastus Kalinouski Regiment, a military unit of Belarusian citizens fighting alongside Ukraine against Russia.

Germany’s Foreign Ministry said it was aware of the case. It said the ministry and the German Embassy in Minsk were providing consular support to the person affected and advocating for him with Belarusian authorities, but it didn’t state his name or other details.

“The death penalty is a cruel and inhuman form of punishment that Germany rejects under all circumstances,” the German ministry said.

Starmer’s words will be welcomed in Kyiv – but Zelensky needs action more than ever

The red carpet was laid, the prime minister was at the famous black door, and the special guest made his entrance. To a standing ovation from the new UK cabinet, Volodymyr Zelensky called on Sir Keir Starmer, the fourth British prime minister he’s met since the war began, to “show leadership” and help with the removal of restrictions on weapons supplied by Western allies.

The PM, who vowed to “double down” on support for Ukraine, described the meeting as “a real piece of history”. Zelensky, who has exchanged similar warm words with various Western leaders, may not agree that Friday’s meeting was quite so historic, but the significance of the event itself must not be overlooked.

The president of Ukraine had been invited to address a meeting of the UK cabinet – only the second foreign dignitary to be accorded this honour in recent memory.

Russia claims capture of another village in east Ukraine

Russia’s army claimed on Friday that it had captured another village in eastern Ukraine’s Donetsk region, where Ukraine is struggling to hold the line against an endless Russian onslaught.

Russia’s defence ministry said its troops had “liberated the village of Yurivka”, a tiny settlement around 20 miles north of the regional capital, also called Donetsk.

Yurivka is the third village Russia has claimed to have taken this week.

Ukraine claims to have downed a Russian Su-25 fighter jet

Ukrainian forces claimed to have shot down a Russian Sukhoi Su-25 fighter jet in the Donetsk region on Friday.

“Our anti-aircraft guns shot down a Russian Su-25 in Donetsk region,” Khortytsia Operational Strategic Group of Forces said on Telegram, adding that the supersonic jet was “trying to fire at the positions of units of the Defense Forces”.

“ Thanks to the accuracy, skill and professionalism of our anti-aircraft fighters, today the Russian aviation has decreased by one combat aircraft,” they added.

Pictured: Zelensky addresses British cabinet

F-16 supplies set to speed up with polish help, zelensky says.

President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Friday that Poland had taken a decision that would speed up the deliveries of much-needed F-16 jets to Ukraine, but did not say what it was.

Poland, which borders Ukraine and has been a close wartime ally, is not one of the countries that has pledged to supply the jets to Ukraine.

There was no immediate comment from Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s office on Zelenskiy’s remark.

“Today, we have a positive decision from the Polish government on a specific issue, which will allow Ukraine to receive F-16 jets sooner,” Zelensky said on X without elaborating.

Kyiv is desperately waiting for deliveries of its first F-16s, which it hopes will enhance its air defence capabilities and help repel regular long-range Russian airstrikes.

US journalist Evan Gershkovich jailed for 16 years by Russian court

US journalist Evan Gershkovich has been jailed for 16 years in a Russian prison on “politically motivated” charges of espionage.

Mr Gershkovich, 32, has been behind bars since his March 2023 arrest after Moscow accused him of “gathering secret information” for the CIA about a military equipment facility in central Russia.

The Wall Street Journal reporter has denied the charges and nations including the US and UK have hit out at what they see as politically motivated charges – with US president Joe Biden calling his detention “totally illegal”.

The Kremlin has said he was caught “red-handed” but has not published evidence. The court proceedings have been closed to the media, with a verdict set to be announced on Friday afternoon.

How UK’s strategic capabilities compare to the 1980s as defence review rolled out

Prime minister Keir Starmer’s review of Britain’s defences comes as the West faces a “dangerous quartet” of Russia, China, North Korea and Iran, according to Nato chief Lord Robertson.

Russia remains the key threat, as it is continuing to wage war in Ukraine, including a deadly missile strike on a children’s hospital in Kyiv last week. Relations with Russia are at their worst since the Cold War period, and military experts believe that European countries need to be prepared for conflict.

But how do Britain’s armed forces compare now to 40 years ago, in 1984, when the UK was engaged in a stand-off with Russia?

In terms of personnel and vessels, the UK’s capacity is substantially lower than in 1984, primarily because the UK is in peacetime.

Read the full article by The Independent’s data correspondent Alicja Hagopian here:

Ukraine plans to build fleet of new war robots

Ukraine is raising funds to build a new fleet of terrestrial robotic platforms that will roam the battlefield, delivering weapons, helping the wounded and firing guns.

The new machines will be designed to act as mobile machine gun posts, logistics devices, tow trucks, minelayers and deminers as well as self-destructive robots.

“They will fight alongside people and for people. The first robots are already proving their effectiveness on the battlefield. And we hope there will be more of them soon,” said a spokesman for United24, the Ukrainian fundraising platform behind the initiative.

Poland investigating crime against Belarusian opposition figure

Prosecutors in Poland are investigating a crime targeting leading Belarusian opposition figure Pavel Latushka under sections of the penal code covering homicide and the activities of foreign intelligence networks.

National Prosecutor’s Office spokesperson Przemyslaw Nowak told Reuters in an email that an investigation was being conducted together with officers from Poland’s Internal Security Agency based in the central city of Lodz. He declined to give specific details of the events being investigated.

According to a letter from prosecutors to Latushka seen by Reuters, the investigation falls under sections of the penal code which cover inciting others to commit a crime, the activities of foreign intelligence agencies and homicide.

The investigation into a crime against Latushka, a deputy head of the United Transitional Cabinet of Belarus, comes at a time of heightened fears for the safety of Belarusian and Russian opposition figures after an attack on Leonid Volkov, an exiled aide to late Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny.

Russian prosecutor seeks 18-year sentence for US journalist Gershkovich

Russian prosecutors at the trial of US journalist Evan Gershkovich on Friday requested that he be jailed for 18 years on charges of spying, Russian news agencies reported.

A verdict will be passed on the Wall Street Journal reporter within hours, the agencies said. Gershkovich, his newspaper and the US government all reject the accusation of spying.

Dozens of Nobel laureates call on Belarus leader Lukashenko to release all political prisoners

Dozens of Nobel prize winners have urged Belarus’s authoritarian leader Alexander Lukashenko to release all political prisoners currently detained by his regime.

The 58 Nobel laureates, including Belarusian writer Svetlana Alexievich, have signed an open letter urging Lukashenko to agree to a political amnesty after 18 seriously ill activists were released this month.

The Belarusian human rights group Viasna counts almost 1,400 political prisoners, including its Nobel Peace Prize-winning founder Ales Bialiatski.

Dozens of Nobel laureates call on Belarus to release all political prisoners

UK to provide military aid for Ukraine ‘for rest of decade’

The UK will provide military aid funding to Ukraine “for every year for the rest of the decade,” John Healey, the Defence Secretary, said.

“If we take the starting point that the defence of the UK starts in Ukraine and if Putin wins in Ukraine he will not stop there, then we must stand with Ukraine, we’re determined to do that,” he told Times Radio.

“And it isn’t just that. We’ve stepped up extra support in these first two weeks in Government.

“We’ve also confirmed the commitment of extra military aid funding this year and for every year for the rest of the decade. As long as it takes.”

Hungary's Orban says Trump was attacked for 'anti-war' views

Former US president Donald Trump and Slovakia’s prime minister Robert Fico were both attacked for their “anti-war views”, Hungarian prime minister Viktor Orban claimed.

Mr Fico was hit by four bullets in an assassination attempt in mid-May while Trump, the Republican party’s nominee for the November presidential vote, survived a shooting on 13 July.

“All these attacks are against anti-war, pro-peace politicians. Pro-war forces are so stirred up, tense, abetted and organised that they are trying to clean out the pro-peace forces from the stage, from the centre of political life,” ” Mr Orban said.

The Hungarian prime minister, who went on a self-styled Ukraine “peace mission” earlier this month that included a meeting with Trump, said that the former president survived the attack because “God has plans with him” to advance peace.

EU leaders hail reset in UK relations as Starmer vows to be Europe’s ‘friend and partner’

EU leaders hail reset in UK relations as Starmer vows to be Europe’s ‘friend’

Zelensky urges European leaders to channel Winston Churchill’s ‘bravery’

Volodymyr Zelensky has urged European leaders to channel Winston Churchill’s “bravery” in the fight against Russian aggression .

The Ukrainian leader made his call as he spoke in the former prime minister’s birthplace , Blenheim Palace, during only his third visit to the UK since Russia’s full-scale invasion. It is his first trip to the UK since Sir Keir Starmer entered Downing Street. Mr Zelensky also met with King Charles during the visit.

The Ukrainian leader told a summit of European leaders: “Bravery made Churchill Churchill. Bravery won the greatest battle of his life. It was the battle for Britain.

“Now our bravery and cooperation must achieve no less so that the children of our nations can someday look back at us, at what we have done, at what we have chosen, what we have promised, and see the pillars of their peace, their security and their prosperity just as we see it when we look back at the most famous person from Blenheim.”

Tom Watling reports:

Zelensky calls on European leaders to channel Churchill’s ‘bravery’ against Russia

Associates of Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump and Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky have discussed arranging a phone call between the two leaders, according to two sources familiar with the matter.

One source said the call could occur as early as today, but it was not immediately clear if the conversation, which would be their first since the former US president left the White House in 2021, had been confirmed.

CNN reported yesterday that the two leaders had a phone call scheduled for today. The report noted that the schedule of the former president, who is in Milwaukee to accept the Republican Party presidential nomination, is subject to frequent changes.

Mr Trump has said he would end the war in Ukraine before he even takes office in January should he win the November election, though he has not provided details of how he would do so.

Two wounded by downed drone in Russia, governor says

Debris of a downed Ukrainian drone wounded two people in the Russian city of Kursk on Friday morning, acting regional governor Alexei Smirnov said.

Separately, the Interfax news agency cited Russia’s defence ministry as saying that a total of 19 drones have been destroyed overnight, including 11 over the Kursk region.

UK defence firms discuss boosting support for Ukraine with Zelensky

Senior executives from British defence firms including BAE and Babcock met Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky yesterday to discuss the need to boost military support for the country in its conflict with Russia.

The Ukrainian president is in Britain for a summit of the European Political Community (EPC) and the meeting in London also included representatives from Thales, MBDA and KBR as well as British defence minister John Healey and business minister Jonathan Reynolds.

“Meeting with industry leaders today, I emphasised the government will continue to work in partnership with industry and the need to boost industrial production of vital military kit for both Ukraine and our own Armed Forces,” Healey said in a statement.

Babcock will extend its contract with the British defence ministry by six months to provide maintenance and repair of military vehicles, Britain’s defence ministry said.

Zelensky to brief cabinet as first foreign leader to visit No 10 under Starmer

Volodymyr Zelensky will address an extraordinary meeting of the UK Cabinet on Friday as he becomes the first official visitor to Downing Street under Sir Keir Starmer ’s premiership.

The Ukrainian president, who is making his third visit to the UK , will also be the first foreign leader to address the cabinet in person since US president Bill Clinton in 1997.

He is expected to brief ministers about the situation in Ukraine and the need to expand Europe’s industrial defence base, as well as agreeing a £3.5bn defence export finance deal with Sir Keir.

The Labour leader made his first visit to Ukraine in February last year and has been keen to underline Britain’s ongoing support for the embattled country, despite a change of government in the UK.

A victory for Donald Trump in the US election in November would be difficult for Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky has said, acknowledging that Ukrainians were prepared.

Mr Trump’s election would be “hard work, but we are hard workers”, he was quoted as saying by the BBC.

Mr Zelensky said “Maybe he really doesn’t care, but we have to work with the United States,” he said while attending the European Political Community meeting in London.

The Republican leader’s choice of Senator JD Vance as his running mate has underscored how Washington’s stand on Ukraine, locked in a 28-month-old war with Russia, could change if he won the election. Vance is on record in an interview as saying “I don’t really care what happens to Ukraine one way or the other.”

The administration of Joe Biden has provided weapons and supplies throughout the conflict, though the flow of assistance was halted for months by disputes within the US Congress.

Mr Trump has said during the campaign that, once elected, he would bring the conflict to an end even before taking office by securing a deal at the negotiating table. He said there would have been no conflict at all had he been in office when Moscow sent troops into Ukraine in February 2022.

Zelensky discusses bilateral relations with Serbia’s Vucic

President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday discussed security and bilateral relations with his Serbian counterpart Aleksandar Vucic on the sidelines of the European Political Community meeting in Britain.

“We appreciate the financial and humanitarian assistance provided to our country,” Zelensky said on X.

Starmer invites Zelensky to attend cabinet

Prime minister Keir Starmer will host Volodymyr Zelensky at a meeting of his top ministers today, in a show of support for the Ukrainian leader who will welcome a new plan to try to disrupt Russia’s attempts to evade shipping sanctions.

A day after hosting a forum of European leaders at Blenheim Palace, the PM pressed on with his bid to raise Britain’s role in international affairs by inviting Mr Zelensky to address his cabinet. The last foreign leader to do so was US President Bill Clinton in 1997, Starmer’s office said.

Mr Zelensky will also welcome the launch of a “call to action” against Russia’s 600-strong ‘shadow fleet’ of oil tankers used to break sanctions, officials said.

Sir Keir is expected to tell the Ukrainian leader that Britain will do more in the coming months to dent Russia’s “war machine”, including agreeing a new defence export support treaty to help Kyiv draw on export finance.

“Ukraine is, and always will be, at the heart of this government’s agenda and so it is only fitting that President Zelenskiy will make a historic address to my cabinet,” he said in a statement.

“And alongside our European partners, we have sent a clear message to those enabling (Russian president Vladimir) Putin’s attempts to evade sanctions: we will not allow Russia’s shadow fleet, and the dirty money it generates, to flow freely through European waters and put our security at risk.”

Ukraine pulls out from another eastern village as Russian offensive grows

Ukraine’s army has pulled out from the village of Urozhaine in the eastern Donetsk region, an official said yesterday, surrendering another front-line position as Russian forces blast Ukrainian defences in a relentless onslaught.The village was reduced to rubble which “made it impossible to hold the positions there,” said Nazar Voloshyn, a spokesperson for local ground forces. He did not say when the pullout occurred.

Russia prematurely claimed earlier this week that it had seized Urozhaine in the early days of the war that began after Russia’s full-scale invasion of its neighbor in February 2022. Ukrainian troops recaptured it almost a year ago.

Russia has deployed devastating firepower as it pursues a summer offensive that has reduced towns and villages to ruins, denying Ukrainians defensive cover. Despite valiant defending, analysts say, Ukrainian forces are being pushed back in some places along the front line by the bigger and better equipped Kremlin army.

Russia says 'let's be realistic' about Trump plan to end Ukraine war

Russia said on Thursday that Donald Trump’s assertion he could quickly end the Ukraine war should be viewed realistically, given that he had promised a Middle East peace breakthrough but failed to achieve it during his presidency.

Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said Moscow had noted statements by Trump, who is running against President Joe Biden in November’s U.S. election, and by his newly nominated running mate J.D. Vance.

“We saw the statements - Trump said he would resolve the conflict within 24 hours, then Vance said that China is a bigger problem for the United States than the Russia-Ukraine conflict,” Ms Zakharova said.

“It’s necessary to separate pre-election rhetoric from statements by government officials vested with the appropriate powers. If we talk about whether it’s possible to resolve the conflict, let’s be realistic.”

Kim Jong-un discusses military cooperation with Russia

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un received Russian vice minister of defence Aleksey Krivoruchko and discussed the importance of the two countries’ militaries to unite more firmly to defend world peace and justice, KCNA news agency said today.

The two leaders shared the need for military cooperation between the two countries to defend mutual security interests, KCNA said.

Mr Krivoruchko conveyed greetings from Russian president Vladimir Putin to the North’s supreme leader, who expressed deep thanks in the meeting, held on Thursday.

The report did not provide any other details of Mr Krivoruchko’s delegation or the purpose of the visit to North Korea.

North Korea and Russia have deepened military cooperation since their leaders held a summit in the Russian Far East last year and signed a treaty on strategic partnership that includes a mutual defence agreement struck in June when Putin visited Pyongyang.

The two countries have been accused of conducting arms trade by Seoul and Washington to help Russia’s stock of missiles and artillery for its war with Ukraine. The two countries deny such trade.

Trump and Zelensky plan to speak today – CNN

Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump has a phone call scheduled for Friday with Ukraine’s president Volodymyr Zelensky, in what would be their first conversation since the former US president left the White House in 2021, a CNN reporter posted on X, citing two unnamed sources.

The reporter did not provide details.

This would be the Ukrainian leader’s first exchange with the Republican nominee after he was shot in the ear but did not suffer any major injuries during a political rally last week.

Von der Leyen pledges ‘European air shield’ to combat Russia threat as she is re-elected as EU chief

Von der Leyen pledges ‘EU air shield’ to combat Russia threat as she is re-elected

Ursula von der Leyen re-elected to a second 5-year term as European Commission president

Zelensky calls on European leaders to channel Winston Churchill’s ‘bravery’ against Russia

Ukraine and Russia exchange 95 prisoners of war each in latest deal

Trump will push for Ukraine-Russia peace immediately if elected, Hungary’s Orban tells EU leaders

Trump will push for Ukraine-Russia peace immediately if elected, Orban says

Donald Trump would be ‘strong and decisive’ in support for Ukraine, says Boris Johnson

Boris Johnson meets Donald Trump and urges him to stand by Ukraine

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Zelensky pleads for more F-16 fighter jets and air defences from West to protect from Russian missile attacks

Zelensky pleads for more F-16 fighter jets and air defences to protect Ukraine

Starmer calls for deeper cooperation on Ukraine and Europe's problems

Britain’s new prime minister, Keir Starmer, called on Thursday for closer cooperation in Europe to advance support for Ukraine and tackle the continent’s most pressing problems: illegal migration, climate change and energy security.

Opening a meeting of the European Political Community (EPC) of more than 40 nations at Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Winston Churchill, Starmer made his bid for a reset in post-Brexit ties with the European Union.

He distanced himself from the previous Conservative government which had threatened to withdraw from an international treaty on human rights, offering other European leaders a clean slate.

Russian attacks kill five in eastern Donetsk region, Ukraine says

Russian attacks on Ukraine’s frontline Donetsk region killed five civilians and injured three others on Thursday, damaging private houses and a residential building, prosecutors said.

A woman and her husband were killed in artillery shelling in the village of Pleshchiivka, the general prosecutor’s office said on Telegram.

Another three women were killed in a strike on private buildings in the village of Hrodivka, it added.

Separately, the Russian military dropped two guided bombs on the village of Velyka Novosilka, injuring a man and his wife inside their house, the prosecutors said. Another man was wounded in an artillery strike in the town of Zalizne, they added.

Nobel prize winners urge Belarus to release political prisoners

Dozens of Nobel prize winners have urged Belarus’s authoritarian leader to release over a thousand political prisoners locked up for criticising his regime.

The 58 Nobel laureates, including Belarusian writer Svetlana Alexievich, signed an open letter urging Alexander Lukashenko to agree to a political amnesty for 1,400 people behind bars for political activity.

Many of those suffering in harsh conditions were detained after Mr Lukashenko staged a violent crackdown in 2020 to suppress peaceful protests following an election widely believed to have been rigged.

“It is unacceptable to subject the people of your country to severe trials and harsh conditions solely for their beliefs. Every person has the right to their opinion and deserves respect for their individuality,” the letter, addressed to Mr Lukashenko said.

“You have a unique opportunity to turn the page on the past and enter history not only as an uncompromising ruler but also as a political leader who has shown wisdom and compassion, responsible to your people and their future.”

Wife of jailed Putin critic Vladimir Kara-Murza calls for West to step in now after prison hospital transfer

Wife of jailed Putin critic calls for West to help release her hospitalised husband

Ukraine and Russia have carried out one of their largest exchanges of prisoners of war – 190 people in total –following negotiations mediated by the United Arab Emirates.

Ukrainian PoWs were filmed arriving in coaches at an undisclosed location in Ukraine on Wednesday, before being draped in national flags and chanting, “Glory to Ukraine, glory to the heroes.”

Footage released by Ukraine’s commission for human rights also showed multiple soldiers holding emotional phone calls with their families, the first time they had spoken to relatives since being captured, while another man was pictured in tears collapsing onto the ground.

Zelensky touches down in UK as Starmer hosts major European summit

Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky has arrived in the United Kingdom as Sir Keir Starmer hosts his first European leader’s summit.

The Ukrainian leader touched down on Thursday for only his third trip to the UK since Russian president Vladimir Putin launched his full-scale invasion in February 2022.

Mr Zelensky is also due to meet with King Charles during the visit to the UK.

Former prime minister Boris Johnson has claimed that Donald Trump “will be strong and decisive” in his support of Ukraine and in “defending democracy”.

The Conservative ex-premier was in Washington this week to attend the Republican National Conference in Milwaukee, where Mr Trump was named the party’s official candidate in the upcoming US presidential elections.

After a photograph circulated showing him giving a speech to a near-empty room at the conference on Tuesday, Mr Johnson later shared an image of himself meeting with Mr Trump, just days after the ex-president survived an assassination attempt at a rally in Pennsylvania.