The re-opening of the border between Russia and Finland on July 1 has increased Finns’ refueling trips to the eastern neighbor.
The ongoing war in Ukraine has not stopped drivers from looking for cheaper gasoline and diesel, as fuel prices have risen well over 2 euros per liter in the past year.
The average price of a liter is up to three times higher in Finland than in Russia.
"It’s such a good deal considering the current petrol and diesel prices. We have two cars in the family. We can now put the saved money towards a trip," resident of the eastern border Mirva Sukhanov told Yle while visiting neighboring Svetogorsk.
Sukhanov has established a Facebook group where users can share tips and other information about refueling trips in Russia. The group has reactivated after a hiatus caused by the pandemic and war in Ukraine, according to Suhanov.
Travelers to Russia are still required to submit Covid documents, but Russian authorities announced they will lift all remaining coronavirus-related entry restrictions on July 15.
Despite the sanctions imposed as a result of the war in Ukraine, Russians can also travel to Finland. As of July 1st, international arrivals no longer need to submit Covid documents upon arrival.
Source: The Nordic Page