Finland has extended the closure of its 1,340km (832-mile) border with Russia until February 11, citing concerns over the potential resurgence of migration facilitated by Moscow. This border, serving as the European Union’s external border and part of NATO’s northeastern flank, has been a focal point due to accusations against Russia of encouraging the influx of asylum seekers and undocumented migrants. As tensions persist, Finland is taking precautionary measures to safeguard its borders and national security.
The decision to close all eight frontier posts with Russia was implemented late last year, prompted by Finland’s allegations that Moscow was actively encouraging asylum seekers and undocumented migrants to cross over. Russia has consistently denied these claims, leading to heightened tensions between the neighboring nations. The European Union and NATO have been closely monitoring the situation, given the strategic significance of the Finnish-Russian border.
Finland’s interior ministry, in a recent statement, emphasized that based on gathered information, there is a perceived threat of the migration phenomenon restarting and expanding as experienced in the past. This ongoing concern has led to the extension of the border closure until February 11. The decision reflects the necessity to maintain strict control over the border to prevent unauthorized entries and potential security risks.
Finland’s decision to join NATO in April marked a significant departure from its decades-long policy of military non-alignment. The move has not only altered the geopolitical landscape but has also heightened tensions with Russia. Finland contends that Russia’s alleged facilitation of migrant movement is an attempt to destabilize the country, coupled with retaliation for Finland’s increased defense cooperation with the United States.
Last month, when two border crossings were briefly opened, over 300 asylum seekers entered Finland from Russia within a span of two days, according to the Finnish Border Guard. In November, an estimated 900 asylum seekers from diverse countries, including Kenya, Morocco, Pakistan, Somalia, Syria, and Yemen, entered Finland from Russia. These incidents have underscored the challenges posed by the migration issue along the Finnish-Russian border.
As part of Finland’s comprehensive approach to enhancing border security, the country is constructing a 200km (124-mile) fence on a section of the border. The completion of this fence is expected by 2026 and aims to provide a physical barrier to unauthorized crossings. This infrastructure project represents a proactive measure to fortify border control and prevent potential security threats.
Finland’s decision to extend the closure of its border with Russia until February 11 is a response to ongoing concerns about the alleged encouragement of migration by Moscow. The strategic significance of this border, as the European Union’s external border and part of NATO’s northeastern flank, underscores the geopolitical implications of the situation. As Finland continues to navigate these challenges, the construction of a fence along the border signifies a commitment to strengthening national security and protecting against potential security risks associated with unauthorized border crossings.
