Don’t pee facing Russia « Euro Weekly News

A €260 fine for an ill-timed loo break? Yes — if you’re facing the wrong way near the Russian border

Visitors to one of Norway’s more remote and scenic border points are being reminded of an unlikely — yet very real — rule: don’t urinate facing Russia. It sounds like satire, but it isn’t.

Near the tiny village of Grense Jakobselv, a handmade sign recently popped up warning tourists: “No peeing towards Russia.” It’s not just a suggestion. Under Norwegian law, anything seen as offensive or provocative at the border — even something as simple as relieving yourself in the wrong direction — could land you a fine of around €260.

Urinating towards Russia could land you a hefty fine

The law isn’t new, and it’s not just about toilet habits. Norway explicitly prohibits behaviour at its border that could be seen as disrespectful to its neighbour. In this case, urinating towards Russian territory is seen as more than bad manners — it’s considered a political gesture.

Surveillance cameras monitor the area, and border officials are quick to act. It’s not just hypothetical either. In recent years, a woman was fined nearly €900 for stretching her arm across a border stream, while four other tourists got into trouble for chucking pebbles onto the Russian side.

Tourists risk fines despite locals finding it absurd

The sign itself isn’t official, but it speaks to a growing frustration with visitors treating the area as a bit of a novelty. Locals say most tourists don’t mean any harm — they’re often just unaware of how sensitive the area really is.

Still, whether it’s for a selfie or a stretch, authorities aren’t in the mood for jokes. And if you’re caught ignoring the rules, your souvenir might be a fine instead of a fridge magnet.

So if you’re travelling near the Russian border and nature calls, maybe just find a proper loo — and double check which way you’re facing.

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