AmaWaterways will suspend all Russian river cruises along the Volga River starting in 2015.

The company are concerned about the welfare of passengers after two Ukranian states held unathorised elections denouncing Western countries.

The states voted to put support behind rebel separatists leaders which are backed by Russia.

“Russia has been a strong product for AmaWaterways,” said President Rudi Shreiner.

“However due to what has been taking place in Russia and Ukraine, the AmaWaterways senior leadership team has given careful though to how to best handle, in order to ensure the best possible experience for our guests. At this time, we have decided not to operate cruises aboard the AmaKatarina in 2015.”

The company launched the Amakatarina in 2011 and the ship accommodates for 212 passengers.

The ship was originally built in the 1980s but was redesigned and rebuilt from the hull.

AmaWaterways is not the only line to be pulling cruises out of Russia – APT was due to commence their newly built river vessel MS Anastasia in May.

They have confirmed the building of the ship has also been postponed.

Throughout 2014, tour operators have reported softness in bookings for Russian cruisers.