From The Barents Observer, October 16:
The decision to exclude Trust Arktikugol’s tourism branch is a direct protest against Russia’s war of aggression on Ukraine.
“We want to tell the world that Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is something we can’t sit and watch,” said Ronny Strømnes, Chair of the Board in Visit Svalbard.
“We condemn the violation of international law and human rights, and the exclusion is a direct result of the war conducted by the Russian state,” a press release from the official tourism board said....
....MUCH MORE, it's a principled stand by the Norwegians that will actually cost them money as compared to, say, putting a little Ukrainian flag on your Twitter bio.
In response the Russians have threatened to retaliate by retaking the coal mines and the ghost town of Pyramiden, a move dismissed as raw revanchism by former FT editors.
Additionally, the Russians have announced a plebiscite among the polar bears to formally establish the right of national self-determination.
The Norwegians have already denounced the Russian moves, citing reports of co-option of the residents (bears) by way of a fear campaign and vodka in the milk, as well as accusations of cubophilia.
Also at The Barents Observer, October 15:
