Russians Flock To Thailand After War In Ukraine: Are They Welcome? | Insight | Full Episode

Two years of war in Ukraine. Some Russians, escaping the draft or the dour economic situation at home, have moved to Thailand. Many found their way to the island of Phuket. On one hand, the influx of Russian visitors has helped to boost the recovering tourist industry. On the other, Russian investors have driven up property prices, while long-stay tourists are stealing jobs from locals. As more Russians are expected to arrive in 2024, what impact will this have on the 400,000 residents of Phuket?
00:00 Introduction
02:06 Thailand's popularity among Russian travellers
04:05 Impact of the war in Ukraine on Russian emigration
08:11 Why Russians are moving to Thailand
12:23 Who is buying Thai property?
16:23 Ways for wealthy foreigners to stay in Thailand
19:39 Locals affected by rising property prices
23:44 Huge reliance on tourism for income in this region
28:20 Are Russian visitors committing crimes?
34:41 Diplomatic relations between Russia and Thailand
37:19 Balancing ties with China, Russia, and USA
44:46 Focusing on tourism
===============
ABOUT THE SHOW: Insight investigates and analyses topical issues that impact Asia and the rest of the world.
==========================
#CNAInsider #CNAInsight #Russia #Thailand #War #Tourism #Trade #Phuket #Travel
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[@joem.5134]

Never in my life have I experienced as rude of people than the russians in Phuket.

[@KiraNt4]

What did they do to you?

[@alexbayer2365]

Did they something bad to u?

[@KiraNt4]

Well, from my experience, the most rude tourists are Germans.

[@dm3280]

You must have met with some rich assholes, but not everyone is as bad.

[@waimunyan7007]

Unfortunately, the majority of Russians have this sense of entitlement. They believe the local culture should adapt to them, not the other way. Very few Russians are enlightened

[@MausTheGerman]

I had some Russian tourists in the hotel. Instead of getting food from the buffet as normal, they took the entire serving platters with them to their table. They ate something and just left 90% of it. The hotel staff was pretty helpless. They also had no manners at the pool. They smoked and drunk in the pool and simply threw the cigarettes into the water. When they wanted to get into the elevator, they didn't let the arriving guests get out first, but simply pushed their way into the elevator without any kind of respect or friendliness. One other guest complained but he got punched into the face. It was a real nightmare.

[@putler965]

They were conducting Special Buffet Operations and Special Elevator Operations.

[@alexbayer2365]

@@putler965 are u Ukrainian?

[@polpojliekwanjaroen3511]

​@@putler965lmao

[@olenmees9150]

have been living next to ruzzians almost my whole life - your examples are 100% TRUE what this s*it nation is all about. 100% most aggressive and obnoxious nation in the world! only rich chinese tourist has been comparable in rude and loud and trashy behavior 2 ass cheeks of conqueror warrior mongol rudiments - ruzzia aggressive china sneaky

[@cch9234]

Sad but true.

[@jdmmg4904]

I never had any opinion about Russians as people or as tourists till I met them. I then continued to be shocked by the rudeness.

[@victormendez8811]

I visited Phuket many times in the past but 5 years ago I decided not to ever go back ~~~ I hated how Russian tourists treated Thai nationals !!

[@user-fu2cv9xl7p]

ukranian bot

[@clivebaxter6354]

Not been since 1996, disliked it even then

[@davidchana962]

legit. they all show up with that depressed European attitude and think they're sh*t doesn't stink, taking advantage.

[@indieanna4764]

They have superiority complexes

[@feiryfella]

@@user-fu2cv9xl7p Vatnik trollbot

[@matthews8894]

I just came back from Phuket a few weeks ago and on the last day I went to Banana Beach and for the boat there and back I was unfortunate enough to get a group of about 10 Russian men and women on my boat, and they were absolutely the rudest, most selfish, most disrespectful tourists I have ever seen in all my years of travel. I was so glad to get away from them at the end of the day, just being around them made me feel angry.

[@ilhamseptian1604]

maybe they were drunk

[@irenagrant-koch7159]

Imagine having your country being invaded by them and having to live under their rule. That is why Ukraine is fighting so hard.

[@gaoxiaen1]

@@ilhamseptian1604 Maybe? They're drunk for breakfast.

[@richardbrown9344]

Just the sound of them talking is horrific in itself.

[@VH-gw3qi]

@@ilhamseptian1604no excuse for bad behaviour

[@kennethvenezia4400]

So, this is a island for wealthy Russians that don't want to fight in Ukraine. Makes sense. After all, we all know it's the poorest people of all nations that do the fighting and dying to protect the wealthiest people who lead privileged lives, because we all know those very people won't do anything that's not totally selfish

[@patt5085]

Being against the war is commendable enough, not being here with empty hands is also great, and so far they stick to Phuket which is already a tourism spot so not really bother locals. If the authorities manage and tax all the grey economy properly, I dont see why not.

[@rogerward9492]

If I were from Russia I would move to Thailand, instead of fighting a stupid war. I feel sorry for all the men from Russia and Ukraine who have been killed.

[@SNOWDONTRYFAN]

Sure is, a good indicator of that being the fact that the USD is pegged to the thai currency , which equates today as hovering around 93 Ruble to $ 01 and will remain high ?

[@adotholland22]

No,,,only cowards do.@@michaelg4083

[@timgershovich1325]

Russians are not poor 😅 especially ones who live in big cities

[@LanternOneStudios]

My sincere condolences to the good people of Thailand. Watch your backs.

[@sykurflos]

thank but we don't need it. Don't just assume that you know the whole situation about anywhere just because you watched a 45 minutes documentary. I can see that people commenting here just want a reason to write something bad about Russians. Living in Thailand you'll run into old sleazy Americans, Arabs, Brits and what nots who also misbehave. Might do you some good to actually travel instead of judging from your tiny computer screen.

[@Freemefredom]

i dont know where u belong to but i know u r from as s lic ker country...and u want whole world to treat russia like u n ur country does...it wont happen..u can live in ur littel country and not think about thailand

[@banagan4604]

They're allowing them in, and also giving them a privileged 90 day visa exemption!

[@Maja-Danmark]

@@banagan4604 I'm selfish. I prefer Thailand giving them visas rather than they terrorise Ukraine

[@GregYbanez]

I don't want to generalize and I'm sure not all Russians are rude but the Russians I've encountered in Cuba were nasty. Even our Cuban guide told us that Cubans don't like Russian tourists.

[@user-dc9oq2pr6v]

where r you from?

[@GregYbanez]

@@user-dc9oq2pr6v Canada

[@konstantinalekseev5455]

yes you sure, but you would like to say on a bad side ok noted. you can go now live your life

[@user-dc9oq2pr6v]

@@konstantinalekseev5455 go home boii

[@konstantinalekseev5455]

​@@user-dc9oq2pr6v you can talk with your wife what to do

[@Giardintek]

We had the misfortune to be in the same resort with some Russians in Santa Lucia, Cuba. Their behavior is nothing short of animals, especially the drunken ones, which was a daily occurrence, since Rum is cheap in Cuba. Can't imagine a herd of them in Phuket..

[@evangelicalsnever-lie9792]

Sound horrid. So sorry the Orcs wrecked your vacation.

[@LinnJakobsson]

l live in phuket, the absolute worst thing with the russians is that they dont support thai businesses as other people that come here do. They like to support each other only and their community they build here over these couple of years its been "special operation". And they drive motorbike like they own the world and like they are the only once on the road, l see russian people everyday hurt on the road(and other people they crashed). The lack of respect of others on the road is just so intense. And ive witnessed a couple of russian roadrages,

[@LinnJakobsson]

And the prices on all their businesses, greedy. Like x2 of all thai businesses. They sell coffee for 170baht for a ice latte etc,

[@rickmccann4016]

They drive like absolute imbeciles.

[@EK-fl8yz]

Such a shame …It’s not any surprise for me They were in Hungary for years

[@uriels4097]

Apparently in Bali, he locals are getting fed up of the russians too

[@Grundewalt]

the locals....What counts are the authorities, police..Russian main export is corruption and kleptocracy is the name of the New world [dis]order they promote, without rules, the only rule, they get to do what they want,

[@rockyBalboa6699]

The Bali locals are sick of Russians, Ukranians and Arab tourists! They are all very rude!

[@514kumiko]

I heard that also ...and in Vietnam

[@michaelahass2695]

Same here on the French Riviera..very rude, superiority complex, speaking so loud, spitting, drinking..

[@michaeldowdy3176]

Same is the Philippines they are all over especially in Cebu and Angeles City.

[@NC-qc7wd]

I was in Thailand in February of 2024, and my final destination was Phuket - a place that I once loved dearly. However, I was sorely disappointed to find that it had been completely overrun by incredibly rude and disrespectful Russian tourists. This experience has left a sour taste in my mouth and has made me hesitant to ever return to Thailand. I am grateful that I had the opportunity to visit before it became overcrowded and unsightly. Sadly, it seems that now it is plagued by overpopulation, filth, and severe pollution - with February 2024 marking the worst pollution levels in history.

[@daydays12]

So sad to hear that...the last time I was there was in 1989 with my wife and two small children...the Thais were lovely ..we visited the small inland villages as well as the beach

[@Mantic03]

You do realize that Thailand is more than Phuket, do you?

[@dealerslicenseops]

Just wait till December till the sewers in Phuket are so overburdened the streets smell like sewer. Not good.

[@mrdlama4036]

Everyone is so friendly Everyone smiles Yeah everyone except the Russians and there sullen faces

[@asimpleguy9667]

true lol😅

[@intransit5719]

and fat Olgas and Roxanas when they turn older than 38

[@anthonydowling3356]

@@intransit5719The Russian women i have seen in Jomtien were mostly stunning .They like to show a lot of flesh even though most are mothers with babies ;-)

[@intransit5719]

mothers with Babies > 36-38 ...? I talk about the fat ugly Swetlanas when they turn older and all that Vodka made their eyes dead looking and belly like wine barrel@@anthonydowling3356

[@ChrisBird1]

They seem very arrogant and obnoxious ,especially the woman ..Thats my Evaluation after 15 years ,never seen one smile yet .

[@fag311061]

One reason to quit with Phuket. Far too much Ivans and Olgas.

[@kritdeknor4711]

Then don’t come

[@joem.5134]

Yeah thats why nobody but nasty rude russians are going to phuket@@kritdeknor4711

[@marcusaurelius9123]

Anything to bring the numbers down helps.

[@rufanuf1]

@@kritdeknor4711Another Invasion?

[@eimisavageofficial9196]

Not stupid like you

[@johnstonasia]

Even here in the Philippines, there are more and more Russians. In Siargao, Boracay, even Siquijor locals will tell you most Russians are friendly, however most foreigner related problems are caused by Russians and Main Land Chinese (e.g. Alcohol related violence). In Mindanao they even have gatherings waving Russian flags and Z symbols..... So they escape Russia to avoid going to war but still "some" support the actions of their government?? Dont get me wrong there are many anti-war Russians about however they want people to adapt to them and not the other way round... I guess a silver lining for the Philippines is that Russian Nationals Can not legally own Land and Property with Land, they can however buy Condominium units but from what I understand the ownership reverts after 50 years or so. Like in any country... you move to that country you adapt to that country and culture...NOT the other way round.

[@Sneg31467]

Why do you think they escaped and not just had vacations?

[@richardbrown9344]

F me, dont tell me they are there in Philippines also...I suppose at least there are plenty of islands to get away from them..

[@walkinbeauty7248]

Russians almost against war. They escape from war

[@sirfer6969]

Just like Filipinos in NZ with their pinoy flags....just as rude and arrogant

[@monicameloni2064]

thats what they do everywhere unfortunately :(

[@chinesecrested9528]

My wife is thai, like her friends, they want the recent draft dodgers out. The have become a mafia out

[@phebranovack9747]

Phuket was already the most exspensive crowded place in Thailand. Now with the new locals it has made it unbearably crowded and expensive.

[@riskinhos]

they aren't locals. they are migrants

[@369dabbler]

Rawaii and nai harn has turned from paradise to a Russian butlins

[@michalzajic8602]

@bler I experienced russians on my vacation in TUrkey . One couple had apartament right over us and they always come around 10 in evning and i can only hear that drunken man screaming on his wife something like sukha and again sukhka for maybe one hour before he passed out . And it was every night. Not that pleasant I wish beter luck to Thailand people My favorite place in Thailand isTaru tao archipelago

[@32hernandez93]

100%.

[@Epitin]

Great, not the White in White Lotus season 3 I was expecting. 😂

[@SNOWDONTRYFAN]

Authorities in the South Asian island nation of Sri Lanka said this week they were canceling long-term tourist visa extensions - a move that coincides with outrage over what appeared to be a “whites only” event organized by a Russian-run nightclub in a popular resort town. But the debt-stricken island’s president raised doubts over whether his government would go through with the cancellations, which would threaten a much-needed source of tourist income. Russian and Ukrainian tourists must leave Sri Lanka by March 7 after the expiration of their final free visa extension, according to a notice issued by the Tourism Development Authority noted that However, President Ranil Wickremesinghe ordered an investigation into the notice, saying the visas could not be canceled without cabinet approval.

[@asimpleguy9667]

yup Ukrainians and Russians are very rude, don't obey laws, very disrespectful and racists

[@j.jwhitty5861]

I went to college with two Sri Lankans, extremely affable, friendly, and intelligent guys. I suspect their positive qualities were a product of their culture and upbringing. I would hate to see Sri Lanka having to deal with the aggressive, corrupt, and morose attitudes of many Russians.

[@jbdigrz]

These news are not true, but made a lot of hype

[@user-jt3dw6vv4x]

They decided to end long term visas but they haven't been asked to leave. They'll have to pay $50 for another 30-day tourist visa if they want to remain in the country. If they don't want to pay then they'll have to leave but $50 is nothing and I don't imagine them leaving when they've settled in the country and run their own businesses. There is still a free visa scheme that is given to Russians as well as to several Asian nationalities (Chinese, Indian, Thai, Japanese, Malaysian and Indonesian).

[@robtorres5518]

​​@@jbdigrz,Bad behavior means they cancelled free visas. $50 for another 30 days is cheap but that means you must behave. Is that so hard?

[@kornsak]

อยู่ได้ หนีร้อนมาพึ่งเย็น เรายินดีต้อนรับ แต่ถ้ามาสร้างปัญหาให้กับคนไทยประเทศไทย ก็ควรส่งกลับ ประเทศไทยเราอยู่ด้วยความสงบ

[@jackiepink5907]

ส่งพวกมันกลับ ให้หมดเลยคับ

[@iggyblitz8739]

Don't let sny Russians in, they don't deserve it.

[@SV-kr9fu]

Do you really think that they are just going to leave only because you asked them nicely?

[@jorr1334]

​. hope for the best, thailand has tough police.

[@SV-kr9fu]

@@jorr1334 : Thai cops (and politicians) can be, easily, bought. How do you think the Russian mobs got a hold of Pattaya?

[@fffss1314]

I live in Thailand they do not spend much money in the local shops or restaurants. They go to there own restaurants have then own taxis not legal and have built up there own network of places

[@tommynickxaisongkham]

Do they speak thai?? And how large are their communities?? Or group?

[@rarindraprakarsa4376]

As well as in Bali.

[@Hasanah-cu3tt]

@@rarindraprakarsa4376 emg ny mrka tdk d delortasi ka

[@mrtee3477]

You think Asians living in America don't have their own Asian market? People are comfortable with their own kind.

[@thumtlnguyen3626]

@@rarindraprakarsa4376 Correct! I watched a clip reporting locals complain that Russians set up their motorbike taxi and Russian tourists only use their comrades' business. But I think Russian tourists just feel more comfortable speaking their native language.

[@Epitin]

Smiling Russians, what a rare sight. 🥹🤭

[@intransit5719]

It´s because all of them know what Russians do in Ukraine. Deporting children from their families. Rape innocent civil woman in the most terribel way. And kill more than 10.000 people. Yes, Russians. That is your country doing. And you should be ashamed as not to do anything against it.

[@xxx888]

Twenty years ago, I visited St. Petersburg, and my first impression was a grumpy face from the Russian immigration officer at the airport; they looked unwelcoming.😁

[@LearnMoreDoBetter]

@@xxx888 The grumpy face is part of the dress code for Immigration officers.

[@bad_writer]

Russians smile all the time, read less propaganda

[@daydays12]

@@LearnMoreDoBetter especially for Russian ones.. In general Russians appear to be hatchet faced...need to get drunk

[@uvmaterialer4764]

Been going to Thailand since 1998, but stopped coming since 2022. Due to Russian influence, the plan was to retire in Thailand. But not now, I speak the language, know the culture married thai. Even my wife wont return

[@alexbayer2365]

What’s wrong with Russians? Typical Eastern Europeans

[@Epitin]

Stand your ground!

[@alexbayer2365]

Did Russians something bad to u? What’s wrong with them?

[@KitSpafford]

I am retied in Thailand from NZ, lived here for several years. There are many areas with no Russians (and tourists) and just as beautiful as Phuket. Khao Lak still very quiet, Krabi, Koh Jum, Koh Lanta...are all still quiet. Even Bangkok, Ekkamai Ramintra leafy area unknown by tourists. You must be hanging around tourist hubs to have the impression not to want to come. I surf Phuket in wet season for the past 3 years and its nice and quiet, some days Kata beach has a handful of people around.

[@Freemefredom]

its good for thailand that u dont come back...if u cant like russian u cant like thai either....so live where u belong..

[@user-jz2dz7hw7u]

i left phuket because of russians...now in Pattaya - i see the same....The worst is thailand will suffer...the westerns will leave

[@user-po1mu1sy7g]

Westerns should leave. We don’t like you here!

[@davidgrafton4291]

I left Phuket because of the Russians I now live in Hua Hin

[@colmlawlor7]

Nightmare for other tourists 😢

[@Truthseeker371]

Avoid Russian infested places. Plenty more nicer places than Phuket. It's outdated.

[@billytheweasel]

@@Truthseeker371 My friend went to Pattaya and the restaurant signs and menus are in russian, some not even in Thai. They said it was flooded with "rude" russians - being polite there.

[@steveburke7675]

@@Truthseeker371 It isn't just Phuket however...hearing Russian voices in Hua Hin and K. Samui too. I'll never return to Phuket.

[@jimmyvatko956]

@KateSmirnova-xu6hithey are and always be)

[@RampageJACKSON-vn1re]

Yes, even in Hua Hin we now have russians

[@user-rp9ib6bh3l]

Just ask Indien about there Russian experience in Goa. First welcomed because of there money, meanwhile rather kicked out because of there behavior. For me,easy, where ever there are many of them, i am not going anymore !

[@skipper2594]

not just thailand , sri lanka too , there was just 20 000 russians living in sri lanka in 2022, now after 2 years there are 300 000 russians live in sri lanka , all are okay , but they should stop spread r@c!$m on sri lankans in our own country

[@sirfer6969]

Ask NZ about Indians here...probably worse than Russians

[@peterjohansson739]

They are everywhere.

[@markwilson7846]

Thank you, Singapore, for producing this. Russian immigrants will destroy Thai culture sadly.

[@ibrahimtouman2279]

at least Russians have culture, but I doubt you have any

[@pcfcgt]

non sense; talking about destroying other people cultures; the British empire outdid everyone else.

[@pomka24]

Thai culture is good! why not remember the culture of the Native Americans? oops, it’s simply not there, because Europeans colonized and killed 98% of the local population 🤫

[@ajisenramen888]

Why? How? The Russians seemed to assimilate quite well.

[@mtha7796]

They are all over ASEAN, why single out Thailand?

[@onehappykamper]

Young Russians with so much cash. Interesting. They owned a coffee shop in Moscow now they spend 500k€ on a beach villa. Interesting. This will be BIG crime trouble. Thai don't like rich foreign competition

[@dexterspeights3484]

Most of these young Russian guys are gangsters with dirty money - washing it in Thailand!

[@savssavs8559]

завидуй молча дебил

[@dexterspeights3484]

This money is from illegal activities on black markets around world or online scams!

[@larp1075]

they are probably kids of ru oligarchs or members of the corrupted ru government -their parents prize ru way of life and their kids prefer to live abroad :)

[@steammanx]

Good luck to the Thai's handling them Russians and Ukrainians! Cause here in Bali they're known to do reckless things..

[@Hasanah-cu3tt]

Knp tdk d suruh pulang sj

[@ian7033-qj9wg]

@@Hasanah-cu3tt Duit.

[@Hasanah-cu3tt]

@@ian7033-qj9wg jd gembel gtuu..bule kere

[@yannip2083]

They destroy wherever they go, and they are super racist against the locals! DEPORT them ASAP before the situation worsens!

[@maximb7225]

Aussies are same.

[@sybillbaldauf2100]

The same problem Bali has with loads of Russians. Working illegal, not respecting the culture nore the Balinese people. So sad. Of course there are nice Russians, but many just can't adjust to a different culture. 😂😂

[@Krahamus]

Thats why i live in Java, less Idiotic tourists to see, prefer to be with locals than foreigners even im foreigner myself

[@nyshkominternational7085]

There are no good russians

[@user-rp9ib6bh3l]

Had to ESCAPE Ubud!! Was not anymore Indonesian ! One was right away in Moscow or St.Petersburg.

[@user-fu2cv9xl7p]

bot

[@samuelwenborne8390]

Yea I agree in Bali, you will never get a 'Hello' or a smile from a Russian.. very anti social people.

[@glaubhafieber]

Phuket is already one of the most expensive places to live here but now real estate prices went through the roof and locals can barely find a place to rent if they don’t speak Russian. They stay in their bubbles like many other nationalitie 😱

[@Flue28]

The majority of local Thais do not rent from Russians. I am not sure where you get that info from.

[@guntaf1349]

There should be a ban on selling real estate to russians. They will never integrate and will always discriminate and treat disrespectfully local people.

[@TheWelwyn21]

Rubbish, where are you getting your information from. Hopefully the thai government will cut the visa time for next year

[@ian7033-qj9wg]

One of the sleaziest places in the world is expensive to live in? Because of sleazy white people? Thai Govt. needs to grow some balls.

[@JohnnyFD]

Anyone else think it's unfair that Russians get 90 day visas on arrival, yet Ukrainians still only get 30 days?

[@alexbayer2365]

Unfair? It’s about politics, not average citizens.

[@maxbiagi3091]

Because all SW Asians govermants "hold" with Putin. Western world with UKR.

[@eliasfirst4621]

Thailand has to restrict visas for Ukraine tbh

[@ChingchangZu]

​This is about Russia and Thailand .@@SunMoonNights

[@369dabbler]

Greedy Thais don’t care

[@Blurb111]

They are rude everywhere they go.

[@alexbayer2365]

Stereotype

[@donovan8747]

Must have something to do with where they grew up.

[@tubewatcher3100]

Are they welcome? Immigration rules have been changed to favor Russians with 90 day visas. Duh. Most other people don't get that.

[@user-rp9ib6bh3l]

Thats because Thailand bought many Russian oil, for a discounted price...it's called: "Diplomatie " concessions.

[@albrecht8203]

This will be huge problem in the future. - 100%

[@jimmyvatko956]

@@albrecht8203no it’s not.

[@dealerslicenseops]

I get 30 days being an American, which is why I haven't returned. Not enough time, and I'm not visa hopping. your country really isn't that great.

[@user-vw7ef1hu9v]

Remind me to stay away from Phuket

[@bluepurgatory2927]

It's not just Phuket. The problem is that these people have no people skills in how to engage with other nationalities. They are either drunk or looking miserable.

[@boobopish]

And Bangkok.

[@jimmyvatko956]

Stay away from Thailand pls - we don’t need such nazi as you

[@tripontube365]

While poor people have been drafted to the war, rich people enjoy leisurely breaks on the beach.

[@johanswede8200]

Despicable

[@roalddahl1623]

Not just Russians. In the US - Trump, Bush, Clinton, Biden all somehow missed going to Vietnam even though they were the right age.

[@commonsenseisntcommon1776]

@@roalddahl1623 -Way to shift the subject, you must be a liberal

[@urekdumone2]

@@roalddahl1623 trump , bush jr both had their daddys pay their way out of the wards. biden and clinton got passes, since they were both in college.

[@urekdumone2]

@@commonsenseisntcommon1776 no if he was a liberal, he wouldve known, biden and clinton both had college passes. the two rep's, had rich families who paid their ways out

[@fnyack]

Soon it will be a Russian stronghold and the local Russian population may ask Russia to annex part of Thailand.

[@TomNook.]

This is how Russia justified their occupation of eastern Ukraine btw. The area was predominantly russian speaking and made up of Russians. Don't let them group up together, because in a generation they will claim ownership of that land.

[@andersbrixserup7718]

no, it wasn't. It never had a Russian majority. A lot of Russian speakers feel Ukranian in eastern Ukraine.

[@yo2trader539]

It's not the first time. The entire purpose of "Manchuko" was to push out Russians from Inner Manchuria. In fact, everything Japan did in late 19th century onwards was to keep the Russians far away from East Asia, which inadvertently leads to war with the Chinese. The Black Sea region of Ukraine and Russia was historically Tatar/Turkic lands, at least since the times of Huns, Avars, Bulgars, or Khazars. The Ukrainians were the vanguard of the Russian Empire helping with the expansion, which is why Russian Far East (including Outer Manchuria) has a high concentration of people with Ukrainian ancestry. In other words, neither Ukrainians nor Russians are natives of Crimea and Eastern Ukraine. They jointly worked together to take Tatar lands, and exiled and killed many of them. Donbass region received many inflow of Russians and Ukrainians because it had such a large coal deposit, which was used for steel production and later helped to build shipbuilding and heavy industry. So basically they're fighting among themselves over the spoils of war and centuries of colonization.

[@prophet1782]

Like Kosovo.

[@RobFomenko]

Well since they don't share a border it would be pretty difficult for Russia to do the same thing in thailand. It's really a non issue.

[@nicky12951]

It's not true. The justification Russia occupy eastern Ukraine is the genocide toward Russian ethnic committed by Ukraine government. Russia is to protect human right of these Russian ethnic in eastern Ukraine.

[@RobFomenko]

Thailand is a country that will be friends with anybody until they're not. The United States and Thailand have a strong military agreement with the USA. Thailand has their own national interests and Will pursue that as they should.

[@Kollohv2]

Nope, Thailand will always serve Thailand's interests whenever the opportunity arrives.

[@EmilionOW]

Many Americans are not better, sadly americans are the worst tourists I have had ever to met of. They always think, every country, is alike the US and the laws in the US or "freedom" applies for them in foreign countries. Harassing and filming people, being very loud, insulting. Some experience I had was: "Why aren't there a line at the airport for prioritising US Passports" or "You Chinese people will see what our Country will do to you" (in Thailand). I mean... many cannot take us apart with chinese... It is not a hate to americans, I think you guys can be great, but holy moly... why do you have so many bad people (?).

[@RobFomenko]

Isn't that what I said

[@cch9234]

@@RobFomenko Exactly.

[@Jeed92]

The United States are always honest with their friends and never turn on them. I love how much they help the world. It would be such a mess without millions of innocent dead people as a direct consequence of american politics. The USA is your friend until you sell oil in any other currency than dollar, then your leaders will have tragic plane crashes or "rebel groups" in their country. A country that is at war for over 95% of its excistance acts like the moral leader of the world. Such a bad joke.

[@krastycz1810]

The Thai government welcomes them, that's for sure! They can stay for 90 days on entry whereas other nationalities can only get 30 days I think. 90 freaking days!

[@janew5752]

Because they cheap oil from Russia. They are rude and ignorant

[@Pajune]

This whole situation is "Pearls before swine" true definition!

[@tomato88ish]

Just spent 2 months in Thailand and at first after encountering so many rude Russians I couldn't understand how people from a country at war could go on a vacation to a tropical Island, while their young men are fighting a war and dying in the snow. It still just doesn't make sense that Russia allows it.

[@ikowaru]

You just don’t understand Russians and their mentality. It is not a war yet for them in their minds, but “special operation” which going somewhere far away and even those “result” from Ukrainian counteroffensive has a little impact on society at all. Sanctions are works? Not yet. Seems that they feel mostly well. Firstly it was a shock for society for sure, but after…it is a true warmonger state at all and war is making them stronger and unite. Regarding limitation of going abroad, for Russians it is a good chance to show the opposite side to Ukraine, which closed their borders for men, so they use it as a PR and didn’t limit an access. *with Big exception for those, who are the target for army. If army chose you and issued an invitation to the army’s preparation procedures, “you’re f*cked up” and automatically loosing an access to the trips abroad and even if you try to leave Russia your traveling passport will be collected by the local authorities.

[@user-pg8bc8gp7j]

​@@ikowaru что ты брешешь крепостное отродье, все уже поняли во всем мире что русские лживые, подлые и трусливые. Вон даже ты срусский сыкунишка почему не на фронте, а потому что ты трус как большинство таких как ты крепостных недоумков.

[@dmytrodubovoy2923]

@@yyyy12344 It is a war, most of them comes to Thailand because they don't want to die in the war but they still support putin ambitions they just want somebody else to go to war

[@johnparktowers1750]

@@yyyy12344 It is a genocide war on a free nation committed by the vile ruzzian people and their little emperor.

[@jimmyvatko956]

So, you want to say you that then USA did a war in Afghanistan, Americans didn’t go on vacation?)

[@Gh0stRid3rr]

I live in Bangkok 6 months a year and when I went to visit Phuket a few weeks ago, Russians are everywhere. As long as they obey local laws, I don’t think there’s an issue. However, they are driving up the mortgage prices in Phuket. It’s like quadruple of what it was pre-Covid. But if the income is coming in, I’m sure some businesses will flourish while some will suffocate.

[@user-og2ne4bi8w]

Babes everywhere? OMG... ... flying to Bangkok right now!!! Hehehehehe~

[@mrkus-nc7od]

How about the Russian Mafia 😂 good luck

[@lovinthailand921]

It’s not good at all! It drives up prices so much locals can’t live there anymore, that and they can’t stand them since they’re rude obnoxious and aggressive. So take the Russian party boy mini city dump of patong for instance the locals have to commute since they can’t live there anymore..They work illegally further hampering the Thai economy. Who wants to go to Russia town while in Thailand?

[@joebidet2050]

Wait... Foreigners can get bank loans Mortgage in Thailand??

[@richardhltrp1791]

Expanding the prostituton market choice with some cheap ruSSian woman and ruSSian ladyboys ...lol lol

[@MK-gn1nz]

The world is burning! Thailand: "ok... how much?" 😅😅😅

[@alexbayer2365]

Not average citizens did it

[@maxbiagi3091]

Bali same

[@alexbayer2365]

@@maxbiagi3091 and what’s wrong with that?

[@alexbayer2365]

@@maxbiagi3091 did Russians something bad to u?

[@RM-mm1lz]

​@@alexbayer2365Yes Russia invaded Ukraine.

[@SamanthaTaylorTravels]

I’m just trying to understand how they’re all so rich to just move to Thailand indefinitely without even working online. Just crazy.

[@rafgraph]

Because we are quite adaptive and we help each other. The most actually work. The number of sanctions that applied to Russian economy at this moment is more than to other countries combined (including Iran and North Korea). We just moved our company from Belarus to Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan to avoid sanctions, part of employees started to work remotely. Initially, I got one year permission to live in Kazakhstan, and I was able to prolong it for 10 years recently. I helped a lot of people from Ukraine, Russia and Belarus and spent half of my savings and still spend significant part of my salary helping others. And I am not rich at all! I have nothing, actually, and I've lost a lot. A lot of guys even found work in Vietnam companies where there are quite low salaries, but they don't spend much too.

[@silviobiasotto7069]

If you own a flat in Moscow or St. Petersburg and rent it out you can already make a living in Thailand.

[@bambina5604]

They set up illegal businesses in Thailand, same in Bali

[@bezymjannaja]

​@@rafgraph😂russians, eho help each other! 😂😂😂 You will be the first, who double price your commrades. You are just rich spoiled assholes, who rents Babushka's flats in moscow and piter 😅

[@davidlynch9049]

​@@rafgraphCorruption. Plain and simple.

[@_Husband_of_the_Dragon_Mother]

It is true that Thailand has had good relations with Russia in the past. But Russia was ruled by a monarchy. not communist And now we Thai people are starting to have some dissatisfaction with foreigners living in Phuket. Such as Russians, Chinese and Indians. These people should know that there is already dissatisfaction from the Thai people.

[@chikukumar-tj1ml]

Indians?

[@_Husband_of_the_Dragon_Mother]

@@chikukumar-tj1ml Yes, they like to live in gangs, make loud noises, and drive motorcycles around the city. Sometimes there are fights with our police. They look well educated. But without common sense I mean Indians who come to do business in Thailand. They are not tourists who come and return.

[@_Husband_of_the_Dragon_Mother]

@@chikukumar-tj1ml It's true

[@zxumwmki3604]

Russia isn't communist now. The communist Soviet Union ended in 1990, now it's a conservative country

[@nick-up1ku]

Will be interesting to see how this plays out medium to long term. Thailand loves tourists who come and spend money and return home after a few weeks or even a month or two, but this is moving more into migration with no desire to move back and Thailand doesn't like this at all. China are also at it as many Chinese are moving assets out to safer shores.

[@ian7033-qj9wg]

As long as the right person is getting bribed it will last forever. Both Thai and Russians are equally adept at corruption.

[@psaint60]

The problems with Thailand’s appeasement strategy will surface when Russian troop mobilizations cease. At that point, there will be a mass exodus of those Russians who were simply trying to avoid conscription (most). Those Russians who had the means to set up parallel economies (taxi, rental properties, “Russia Towns”) will simply pull up stakes and take their profits with them. If the Thai economy starts relying on that revenue and it suddenly disappears, that may create difficulties. More enduring problems may arise as a result of the numbers of tourists and expats who make the decision to leave Thailand and never return because of this experience.

[@pieter9058]

I absolutely hate facing Russians in holiday. There a tour operators who offer Russian free hotels. That's how bad it is. There's nothing fun with drunken Russians next to you when you should be having the best time of the year.

[@liliapatorotcha4992]

Stop hate !!! Peace to your soul peace to the world

[@Yolo_Fomo]

The only thing worse than drunken Englishmen pissing in their pants are drunken Germans.

[@dmytrodubovoy2923]

@@liliapatorotcha4992 Peace and russians are incompatible things

[@bafattvahetere]

@@liliapatorotcha4992 You can say that again!

[@johnparktowers1750]

Drinking is a way of life for them, abusive entitled people with few morals.

[@konceptgaming9469]

The saddest thing is, the Russians that don't want the war to happen, leave their country instead of making a stance against their Government. The only way Russia will stop the war is if the people of Russia do they right thing and remove Putin from Power, only the people can do this

[@xdgs567z]

It’s sad but Putin has already taken total control of the government, even the court system and church in Russia that and any dissent will end up with lengthy prison time or even death…the Russian people hands are tied….sadly enough

[@rafgraph]

Russia has been an authoritarian imperialistic empire for more than 500 years. Even consolidated actions of the most developed countries on Earth cannot deal with it. I am not a crazy trying to change the world and history, thank you, I would better just leave what I actually did already.

[@virtuaguyverify]

That is a death sentence, nobody wants to die

[@RogueSecret]

most russians wants putin as a leader, this war aint so black and white as you think. go to any ukraine youtube site , in all commentfields you see them calling russians for orcs... and they celebrate stephan bandara (his hero was adolf hitler) and zelenskys former boss is the guy who made the azov battalion and other neo nazi gangs, ighor kolomsky, fbi wanted gangster oligarc who owned alot of the politic figures in ukraine. and cia have been training spes forces in ukraine since 2014, same goes with usa/nato, usa even had to change their law cuz it was illigal to arm neo nasiz in 2015. us millitary even tried to get millitary base on crimea, zelensky wanted nukes, joe biden son has his signature on all corrupt oil and gass company's in ukraine, even on the biolabs, his computer is still out on mega.nz so you can read it yourself, and the bank account used is even shared with joe biden...

[@svitlana1500]

The fact that they left the country doesn’t mean they all don’t want the war. They just don’t want to be drafted to the army, but most of them support their tzar and the war

[@holamad]

Whoever you are Wherever you go please respect the local people : laws, regulations, religion , customs, language….

[@lukemckean6155]

I was in Pattaya a few weeks ago and there were Russians everywhere ! Loads of Russian signage too

[@stingray9225]

No respect, military escapees

[@evangelicalsnever-lie9792]

I partied and traveled Thailand in the 80 - early 90's and it was just great. No Russians.

[@walkinbeauty7248]

​@@evangelicalsnever-lie9792Russian was there always😂😂

[@wumao6797]

Not only Thailand but Singapore too. Heard from some housing agents that there is a spike of condo sales to Ukrainians and Russians lately.

[@user-jt3dw6vv4x]

It's happening all over South and Southeast Asia. Many Russians and Ukrainians have now settled in resort towns in Sri Lanka, Thailand, Kerala and Goa in India, Bali and Vietnam. There are two resort towns in Sri Lanka that have now been nicknamed "Little Moscow" and "Little Russia" and all the signs are in Russian. I also read that the hospitality workers in southern Sri Lanka and coastal Vietnam now converse in Russian to White customers as the default language as the number of Russians now outweighs the number of Western English speakers.

[@JJJJ-gl2uf]

My wife and I live in Thailand and visit Phuket once a year. We usually stay in a small hotel that Russians have yet to invade and have a relaxing time. When we're out for a meal, we just try to avoid any contact with them. Russians are often very rude and when they drink (often) they tend to get aggressive, and we don't need the aggravation of dealing with them. The good news is we live in Bangkok and it's easy to avoid Russians here.

[@TeacherEric173]

I have been residing in Thailand since 2009, and the main Russian hub in the country used to be Pattaya. In Pattaya, there were Russian nightclubs, Russian prostitutes, and restaurants catering to Russians. However, recently, Phuket has experienced a significant increase in Russian tourists, which has both positive and negative implications. This influx of tourists is beneficial for the economy but has drawbacks for the locals and the environment. The excessive number of visitors may harm the natural beauty of Phuket, evident in the overcrowding of the area leading to an increase in crime and pollution.

[@neilclark8087]

Couple of weeks ago, the former president of Mongolia Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj (2009-2017) sent a map of the ancient Mongolian EMPIRE. to Mr Putin. It has has not been reported if his gift was accomapnied with territorial claims over Russia and China. Needless to say Mr. Elbegdorj is a strong critic of Putin .

[@liasaar2730]

A toast to Mr. Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj for his intelligence and sense of humor!

[@mifolyikittgyongyoson8052]

Without Russian (Soviet) help, Mongolia would be a Chinese province today.

[@dennisrathbone2128]

Thailand is not gaining much from these Russian "tourists", for everyone Russian tourist Phuket loses more than that in loss of European and American tourists, who are much better behaved and way less murderous!

[@neilclark8087]

@@mifolyikittgyongyoson8052 Absolute nonsense.

[@ahemenidov1900]

Mongolian empire is actually fake. It kept only nominal connection to Golden Horde, and only during starting few decades. Even Tamerlane's Empire was more influencial here. De-facto Golden Horde was independent and based on Kypchak-Turkic ethnic element.

[@nicholaslu4069]

Met so many Russians in Phuket even pre war and pre covid. My wife and I went to a small island off the shore of Rawai and encountered ~10 people, all Russians, hanging out on that island. They had a small shop and probably stayed there over night. It felt as though they owned the place. This was late 2019 and early 2020, right before covid.

[@imtheeastgermanguy5431]

It's allowed to do business if a Thai is joining the business like 50:50 ownership. I don't know how they work it out but maybe they just pay someone who is in charge on paper.

[@dmytrodubovoy2923]

@@imtheeastgermanguy5431 That's exactly what they do and Thai layers are facilitating that

[@imtheeastgermanguy5431]

@@dmytrodubovoy2923 yes

[@carlosnorris352]

I was in Philippines sitting by the pool when I saw a guy blowing his nose loudly in the outside shower. I told everyone “this is Russian”. Nobody was willing to bet against me . Minutes later we got the confirmation. I was right.

[@savssavs8559]

how? did he show u his passport? may I know where do u come from so ppl are perfect and don't even blow their noses loudly?

[@carlosnorris352]

@@savssavs8559 they told me afterwards when they sit next to me.

[@castorchua]

@@savssavs8559 Probably started drinking vodka with his 13 year old girlfriend

[@savssavs8559]

@@castorchua seriously Epstein-minded nation, ur country full of perverts and pedofiles and u talking about Russia... yeah truth is visible for those who WANt to see it

[@rickmccann4016]

I know all too well the blowing nose and loud sneezing BS.

[@glengamble526]

I was there in winter of 2022 and there were tonnes of Russians even at THAT point…I’d imagine it’s much ‘worse’ now.

[@intransit5719]

Same to me. Although I have been to TH 4 times since than I choose spots like Surat Thani, Chiang Mai or Issan to avoid Russians

[@marknordgard1916]

Sri Lanka wants to kick out more than 200,000 Russians, if that happens, more Russians for Thailand ,😱

[@davinxi5926]

How many are escaping conscription?

[@commonsenseisntcommon1776]

all

[@diilouise]

That was very interesting, thank you.

[@user-bm6pm2wf8n]

I used to love Thailand. But I was scarred from my last trip there. Some of the taxi drivers and shop vendors have become dishonest and were basically scamming tourists.

[@HaiNguyen-zh8cv]

Most of taxi drivers scam tourists, but I love street merchants, they are so nice, so honest.

[@Emyrtemoc]

Scammers are in every country and their easiest targets are the tourists.

[@c.i.6950]

Try India instead !!!

[@castorchua]

@@c.i.6950 To get scammed by everyone?

[@MiniTvClubYT]

​@@castorchuabrainwashed by left lobby

[@SlipshodResearch]

Thanks to the team at CNA for this insighftful update on Phuket.

[@sixth77]

well put up documentary, good job Singapore for this!

[@gumacanian4211]

Loads of Russian and Ukranians here in Bohol Philippines..Many of them neighbour's.. No problems as far as I can see..Good as gold for a couple of years now..We even had 2 over for Xmas lunch..Good people.

[@ibrrich6730]

Not just Phuket, but all over ASEAN. Bali, Kuala Lumpur, Da Nang.

[@SanyHand]

But number of Russian in Thailand are freakly because there are 2 to 2.5 millions Russian in Thailand alone. Bali , KL , VN still less !!!

[@Aaron-ky6uj]

@@SanyHandthey are slowly moving into Vietnam. If in the future, Thai government restricts all foreigners, they will go to different countries

[@SanyHand]

@@Aaron-ky6uj Source ?

[@albrecht8203]

Horrible!

[@Aaron-ky6uj]

@@SanyHand I don't have a source, but Vietnam recently announced 90-day visa instead of 30-day visa. Thailand is still one of the top destinations in SEA, but the Thai government makes it too easy to get a visa. People from around the world are moving to Thailand. They want to stay in Thailand long term instead of travel a few months and leaving. The problem is that there are too many people in but very few people out. I live in Da Nang City near Noi An. I have seen more people coming in, but I don't want Da Nang and Hoi An ended up like Thailand.

[@marcusaurelius9123]

Good documentary

[@FJEUSC]

What is keeping Russia from using Thailand as a secret hub for shipping and receiving goods to and from countries that have applied sanctions?

[@tubewatcher3100]

Nothing.

[@farang_lao]

EU sanctioned a Thai company last Friday for supplying technology services to the Russian army. Absolutely nothing in the Thai media about it... Thai Smile 🇹🇭🥵

[@FriendlyYandere]

The sanction, if Thailand let the Russian use it for shipping hub then this would be found out really quickly and Thailand is going to be penalize for that, not a good thing for Thailand.

[@RS-bk5id]

Seventh Fleet

[@bdunnigan73]

They don't need Thailand for goods from the West...they get them other ways...look at the myriad of videos on KZbin showing Russian shops...sanctions are a blunt instrument and don't work completely when there's money to be made. Russia's too big to be completely sanctioned.

[@cch9234]

I sure miss the good old times in Phuket!

[@bafattvahetere]

I sure miss The Good Old Times!

[@williamhartz8707]

Knowing how during "normal times" most condos and villas do not appreciate in value in Thailand, once the Russian war with Ukraine ends, I wonder if Phuket real estate will keep its value and if many Russian condos and villas will go on sale? Stay tuned...

[@billytheweasel]

Both countries have economic and workforce issues. It's a gamble Thailand is making.

[@tuttirulla]

Not a good investment

[@StrongKickMan]

I am a German who is living in Portugal for 4 years. I have an offer to work in Thailand starting June, but hearing this I am not sure if that is a good idea. Can locals recommend a place where more local people live? Phuket is out of the question.

[@dennis10000]

Stay away from phuket. The russians and arabs have taken over. Loud, arrogant and like confrontation. Plenty of other great Thai spots not yet spoiled.

[@ankaralion]

Okay Nazi

[@Vev79]

Are you going to measure heads or confiscate gold fillings?

[@Vortex__24]

lol@@Vev79

[@borntorockzha]

Germany ;)

[@jamesspencer1463]

They should be turned away

[@londonberry2180]

No. They have a passport, a valid visa and they have money. There is no legal basis to turn them away. The world does not revolve around Europe.

[@CavemanTravels]

​@@londonberry2180visa is only 30 days. How are they staying for so long?

[@londonberry2180]

@@CavemanTravels can simply exit and come back.

[@CavemanTravels]

@@londonberry2180 2-3 times then they'll tell you to go frig yourself.

[@langston3286]

​@CavemanTravels there is a such thing as visa extensions. Different types of visa exist also. Education, retirement( over 50), etc.

[@oneshothunter9877]

Thailand just be very cautious about this because if any trouble occurs, the little poisoner will probably consider to send "aid" to Thailand, same way he did to Ukraine.

[@jimmyvatko956]

You mean USA? As they did with Ukraine?

[@urekdumone2]

@@jimmyvatko956 no stupid

[@urekdumone2]

@@jimmyvatko956 usa doesnt try to take over, americans arent flocking to replace removed citizens in iraq or afghanistan. we dont claim iraq isnt a country you lame

[@SayWhaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaat]

IT'S A SHAME THAT THAILAND ALLOW RUSSIANS TO ESCAPE TO THEIR COUNTRY! RUSSIANS SHOULD STAY ISOLATED IN THEIR GULAG.

[@getrural]

these cowards need to sort out their own problems . not run to Thailand

[@dmytrodubovoy2923]

Yes they just don't want to die in the war but still support putin and russian imperialism just ask them what country Crimea, Abkhazia and South Ossetia belong to and you will get your answer

[@YuriUK]

Almost all Russians I talked to while in Thailand yes was avoiding being drafted back home but none said anything in support of Ukraine, they all love their president and all proud of invasion of Ukraine especially of annexation of Crimea.

[@dmytrodubovoy2923]

Every country should be asking russians on the visa application the question about whom the Crimea, Abkhazia and South Ossetia belong to

[@svitlana1500]

Yes it’s true. They support the war

[@julyseven808]

I love warm, sunny weather of SE Asia.

[@vgshwk]

They renamed it saint phuketsburg

[@lokale9712]

MAKE SOMETHING LIKE THIS ABOUT BALI!

[@walkinbeauty7248]

Bali IS nash also😂😂

[@lokale9712]

@@walkinbeauty7248 da ladno. Ti cyo ne slozish za svoyu rodinu?

[@bezymjannaja]

​@@walkinbeauty7248mraz

[@joskites8374]

Bali and Thailand will be distroit. Ivans do not care if only for them selfe. Spitting trashing fighting drinking that is what to exspect😢

[@coleythailand999]

Well done! Balanced article on Russia/Thailand. Probably go viral as there are so many angles.

[@lne176]

mhhee........... I stopped watching when she spouted about capital outflows from Russia in 2022 at USD 220 Billion...... com on, even a dimwit like myself instantly knew that is rubbish, in 2022 everything from Russia was frozen with risk of confiscation...... yeah, so why not plow another 220 Billion on top of that! This is very poorly researched, all it akes is a quick visit to the the Russian National Bank..........and voila, the outflow in 2022 was around 1 Billion.

[@evilleader1991]

CNA is surprisingly always pretty balanced.

[@roccatx1509]

As long as the demographic of foreigners outweigh the locals, be it tourism, emigration, long term stay etc. There will always be a negative impact on the society but positive effect on the economy. Cultural adaptation takes a very long time. Same thing is happening in Bali now.

[@jehanc]

Then after Thailand and then Malaysia for 3 months.

[@ianwallace16]

Now called Rusket 😢 😢

[@CaptureJoseph]

I've heard people call it The Soviet Republic of Rawai

[@123uschie]

Interesting video.

[@joeordinary209]

I love the sympathetic and friendly face of Russians( Just like the FSB interrogator in the room with no windows)

[@dmytrodubovoy2923]

So how much do you think from those 1.5 mil of russians in Thailand are fsb spies

[@viktoriabasharkina2331]

😅😅😅😅Yes, true. Most of russians not smile. I am staying in Thailand for 15 years and always recodnise people from my country by face expression

[@sucho4492]

It’s the false/mistake of Thai government. This is our land for local Thais. Not for marfia gangs or rich people.

[@alexbayer2365]

But tourism is very important things too

[@ibrahimtouman2279]

we want a similar documentary about the dangers of British tourists in Spain

[@stevenmoore3480]

You are 40 years out of date with your pathetic whataboutery.

[@walkinbeauty7248]

They occupied my country. My ❤ Spain

[@twinturbo5212]

utter bs, without british tourist spain would be bankrupt

[@timlaughlin6860]

Very good documentary

[@michelleblake6853]

So sad for the Locals.

[@mickthompson2575]

And sad for Americans and European visitors as well.

[@Sparsaka]

​@@mickthompson2575 Sad for locals to see westerners*

[@mickthompson2575]

@@Sparsaka All xenophobes are sad when they see people of other races and nationalities. But not all Thais in Phuket are xenophobes the way you are.

[@banagan4604]

@@mickthompson2575 There's nothing xenophobic about 1 nationality completely taking over. I'm Irish, I wouldn't want to visit a Thai Island and have it overrun with Irish.

[@mickthompson2575]

​@@banagan4604 Except that there is no one nationality "completely taking over" Thailand. In fact, the total population of non-Thai living in Thailand is less than 7%. The vast majority of those being Burmese, Malaysians, and Chinese. The comment was that it's "Sad for locals to see westerners"., yet less than 0.5% of Thai population is "westerners". It's pretty xenophobic to be sad every time you see 1 out of 200 people who are westerners. Did you feel sad every time you saw an Asian living in Ireland?

[@TomNook.]

The men should be fighting their special operation, not colonising another country.

[@ians9390]

you're right. Too many ukrainian "refugees" around. They are economic refugees and should be at home, not collecting social money and going home for vacation.

[@Lucas-wn5wm]

​@@ians9390 in Bali and Thailand theres no freebies like EU.

[@jetd9716]

Will that's the problem, most of the Russians are against the war and dislike PUTIN but are unwilling to change the status quo due to fear of jail time and having to be sent to the front lines.

[@feiryfella]

@@ians9390Vatnik

[@ians9390]

@@feiryfella go cry about it

[@dev9100-luv-the-world]

Very informative

[@user-rp9ib6bh3l]

At the Russian invasioned places like Phukut,Pattaya,Samui, the renting prices had more than doubled only in the last 12 months. At the end, the locals will realize that they can not afford anymore there own country. In this places, many tuk tuks don't transport anymore locals. Why riding for a regular price, when one of those tourist will pay you at least 5 times more ?

[@Sneg31467]

Tourist always pays more than local

[@pichupuche2474]

I'm Thai and in this ugly world there are always have good and bad people. We all welcome them not just Russian but also Ukranian.

[@mikhailt1578]

Khop kun krap! Thank you very much! I'm so sad reading comments because I'm russian and I love and respect Thai people so much and all my friends very respectful... But westerns always hated us and they hate us and here. Ukranians here are so nice and here we can have friendship with them too...

[@vladimirstankovic8761]

@@mikhailt1578 I really don't understand where you got the idea that westerners hate you? After the collapse of the Soviet Union, at least here in the former Soviet satellites, we sincerely hoped that life in Russia would improve, that you would take advantage of the opportunity to govern yourself, use your enormous natural resources. Unfortunately, that didn't happen. You have allowed your rulers to rob you. Compare Qatar, UAE how do they use natural resources for the well-being of their residents? And do you have any idea how life in the country where I come from (the Czech Republic) affected the transition to the Soviet sphere of influence? Destroyed lives, companies, political murders, thousands of emigrants both after 1948 and after the famous Soviet occupation in 1968. To this day, no one - unlike the Germans - has apologized to us for this. So what we really hate is Russian imperialism. Treat not only Thais but all nations with courtesy and respect. And they will respect you not because they fear you, but because they respect you. I wish all you decent Russians to be able to take your country back and restore the lost trust. Take care, man!

[@valuedcustomer94384]

@@mikhailt1578 I'm thai too. Go back to your own country.

[@bezymjannaja]

​@@mikhailt1578oh, please. You just used term from russian propaganda - weterns and that they hated you, and you are saying you are respectful?! And your friendship with Ukrainians... No, thaks - it warth to much for us already!

[@blinkeu_tess01]

Visitors they come and leave ... if they stay, that means only time will tell when they'll claim the land is theirs. Goodluck. That's how colonization starts.

[@MrStarsuicide]

OK, so who is colonizing the USA?

[@Lucas-wn5wm]

​@@MrStarsuicidemillions of illegal immigrants

[@gen7180]

Everyone ! That is the USA way but we control ours.. mostly currently having a problem with some who want to change the government to their liking but good will win out. Trump-ism (Russian ways) is not going to win.@@MrStarsuicide

[@remhk6672]

Very much the case with the vietnamese using this tactic to colonize southern mekong delta which was formerly khmer empires territory.(cambodia)

[@Ian.549]

Russians also have flooded into Georgia Europe. Thats is even though it is very much a European country, they have invested massively in it.

[@Ian.549]

@@Sneg31467 Is Georgia considered European? The country regained its independence in 1991, declaring its aspiration to join the European and Euro-Atlantic world and to regain its place in the European family to which Georgia has always belonged. Georgia is situated in the Eastern European region of South Caucasus.

[@Yolo_Fomo]

Долбоеб. Где Грузия и где Европа.

[@Traveler-PKK]

So - sad for both countries and those that have no home or home land. Many people have left many countries to find safety and a better live not just Russians and Ukrainans. Very sad the governments have failed the people. All this is Greed!

[@RoGa766]

Bless you

[@joebidet2050]

Many russians in korea too

[@SharenSong]

There have been tourists ( not only Russians though) working illegally in Indonesia as well, especially in Bali.

[@darwinqpenaflorida3797]

Yeah mostly not only Russians, Australians too my friend because I heard on the news about not only illegal workers in Bali, but also a recorded number of misbehaving tourists like naked in a sacred places like temple and assaulting locals too in Bali resulting on deportation, so as a Filipino myself, it will never happen again if I visit Bali and I like to meet new Balinese friends and respecting culture 😊😊

[@Flue28]

@@darwinqpenaflorida3797 The misbehaving naked tourists are also Russians....

[@roalddahl1623]

So we now have a list developing of places to avoid due to too many Russians : 1. Phuket 2. Nga Trang 3. Bali 4. Goa And especially 5. Ukraine !

[@temogen2]

Vocal translation is crucial🙏.

[@iart2838]

Highest rate of alcoholism is in Russia, men die in their 40s and 50s, always was a problem.