Due to international sanctions against Russia, thousands of Russian tourists find themselves stranded at the airport, Thai authorities warned on March 13.
From Moscow to Phuket, the economic sanctions imposed by the European Union seem to trigger cascading effects.
Heavily affected by the restrictive measures, Russian banks and companies have been imposed a forced cessation of activity, resulting in the cancellation of flights or the suspension of banking transactions.
3,100 Russians stranded in Phuket
Having left in large numbers following the lifting of the health restrictions put in place in the face of the Covid-19 epidemic, Russian tourists now find themselves without a return ticket.
And the city of Phuket is not the only one concerned: 2,000 Russians would be in Samui. Also according to Thai authorities, a number of Russian nationals are scattered throughout Thailand, from Phang Nga to Bangkok.
A sluggish evacuation
According to statements to AFP by the head of tourism in Thailand, Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudha, the country is trying to help Russian tourists, by carrying out “discussions on return flights» and so negotiate “regular or special flights».
On the side of the Phuket Tourist Association, the difficulties would be more related to banking transactions: “We have seen cases of difficulties in card payments by Russians» said its chairman, Bhummikitti Ruktaengam.
No ban on Russian flights to Thailand
Although Thailand has not followed in the footsteps of the European Union in terms of sanctions, the country finds itself indirectly affected by them. In question, the restriction of international airspace, and the consequent cancellation of certain connections.
To leave Southeast Asia, Russian tourists must therefore find alternative routes, in particular transiting through the Middle East.
To overcome these sanctions, the president of the association, Bhummikitti Ruktaenga, said he was thinking about adopting digital currencies as well as the Russian Mir system. The Mir card offers in its portfolio of services the electronic transfer of funds.