4 chapters across the catalog
The Arctic Refugee Route through Russia to Norway
The BBC reports on a growing "Arctic route" for refugees traveling from Russia into northern Norway on bicycles. While the numbers are small compared to Mediterranean crossings, over 4,000 people have used this path since August. John C. Dvorak expresses skepticism about the story's validity, questioning why anyone would choose such a treacherous northern passage.
Arctic Migrant Route, Russia to Norway Bicycle Crossing
A remote border crossing from Russia into Norway has become a new route for Syrian refugees. Because walking across the border is prohibited, migrants are purchasing bicycles on the Russian side to cycle into Norway. This Arctic path is reportedly cheaper and safer than the Mediterranean crossing, despite the freezing temperatures in Murmansk.
Norway is facing a fresh challenge as refugees fly to Moscow and take trains to the northern border. The hosts express skepticism about the feasibility of pedaling bicycles through 100 miles of snow, though weather reports show temperatures in Murmansk are currently above freezing. They discuss the potential for anti-refugee sentiment to grow in the region.
Global Energy Competition and Russian Ruble Devaluation
As Israel develops the Leviathan gas field to compete for the European market, Russia faces economic pressure from a tumbling ruble. Reports from Murmansk indicate that local service prices, including those for prostitutes, have risen by 40% to compensate for the currency's devaluation, which some attribute to Western market manipulation.
