WHBM
I didn't know that SU don't n/s LHR - I knew they had an early departure and assumed....
BA (BOAC) used to nightstop SVO en-route to/from Japan. One occasionally hears tales of the hotel conditions (own plug, toilet paper, towel needed etc; hot water/heating/cooling variable at best; madam at end of corridor not to be argued with; etc).
I agree that a relaxation a la Ukraine (relaxion originally for Eurovision, I believe) which has been extended has dramatically shown the benefit of opening up borders. See also India and now China catching on to the benefits.
As to the Russians and gratitude for the sub rescue, I won't hold my breath if you don't mind!