Finland indefinitely closes border amid security threats
The Finnish government has announced that the border with Russia will remain indefinitely closed. This decision arises from the threat posed by the so-called "instrumentalisation of migrants." The border was initially closed in December 2023 when migrants from the Middle East and Africa began arriving in Finland in large numbers.
what do you need to know?
- Decision to close the border: The Finnish government has decided to close the entire eastern border with Russia, which spans approximately 800 miles, for an indefinite period.
- Security threat: The closure of the border is a response to threats associated with the instrumental use of migrants by Russia, impacting the security of Finland and the European Union.
- History of the closure: The border was first closed in December 2023 due to the mass influx of migrants from the Middle East and Africa.
The Finnish government closed the border with Russia due to concerns regarding the instrumental use of migrants.
The Council of Ministers emphasised that this is one of the methods used by Russia to exert pressure and influence the security and social stability of Finland and the European Union.
As a result, all crossings on the Finnish-Russian land border have been closed.
What are the consequences of the Finnish border closure?
As stated in the government communication, "applications for international protection can be submitted at other crossings that are still open for air and sea traffic."
The Finnish government first decided to close the border in December 2023 when over 1,300 migrants without the appropriate documents arrived in the country. Among them could be individuals posing a threat to Finland's security, including those linked to extremist groups.
In addition, the authorities suspect that some of those arriving might have been involved in organised human smuggling.
"The government will regularly assess the content and scope of the decision as the situation develops, in cooperation with the Finnish border guard and other public authorities. The decision will be revoked or amended if it is no longer necessary to prevent a serious threat to national security or public order," the communication emphasised.
The Finnish eastern border with Russia measures 834 miles in total, with the land border accounting for 801 miles and the Gulf of Finland contributing 34 miles in length.
Source: Polish Press Agency
