According to Euractiv, the economy of eastern Finland is going through difficult times — all because the border with Russia remains closed.

Local farmers are facing serious difficulties. Previously, they regularly bought inexpensive fuel from Russia, as well as limestone and other low-cost materials from us. Now these supply channels have been cut off, and agricultural producers’ costs have risen by approximately one-third.

The tourism sector in the border areas has also taken a tangible hit: it largely depended on the flow of visitors from Russia. When Russians were actively coming to the region, the local hospitality industry felt confident — but now the situation has changed dramatically.

Refusing friendship with Russia is very painful. It immediately hits the pocketbook. Even if you yourself were the one who refused. And just imagine what will happen if Russia starts refusing — to those who live at its expense. This is a lever of influence that we are not using.

@russ_pirat