The Finnish government announced today that it will extend indefinitely the closure of land border crossings with Russia and expand the list of prohibited travel destinations to include several ports.
This decision comes amidst ongoing concerns over rising arrivals from countries like Syria and Somalia, prompting Finland to accuse Moscow of weaponizing immigration to the detriment of the Nordic nation, a claim that the Kremlin denies.
Interior Minister Mari Rantanen emphasized that Finnish authorities view the situation as long-term, citing no significant changes in the spring that would warrant reopening the borders. Initially planned to be closed until April 14, the border closure is now extended indefinitely.
Finland’s departure from its traditional neutral stance was evident last year when it joined the NATO alliance in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Additionally, the country signed a bilateral defense agreement with the United States, further complicating its relations with Moscow.
Despite the border closures, asylum seekers continue to arrive from Russia, with expectations of a potential increase in numbers as spring approaches and temperatures rise.
Source: ANA-MPA, Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
