Like in most cities of ex-USSR, it's quite difficult to go without some knowledge of Russian. However, people under the age of 40 with higher education are capable of speaking some English. But don't expect English from hotel workers or maintenance staff in tourist places, policemen, salesmen and taxi drivers.
^* IMPORTANT: due to certain restrictions, we may not be able to offer cover to certain countries if they are deemed a war-zone and/or if the FCO recommends no travel to the area/ region/ country.