The Finnish Interior Ministry announced on Thursday that Finland has decided to extend the closure of its border with Russia until April 14, citing a persistent influx of asylum seekers believed to be orchestrated by Moscow.
Since December, Finland has maintained the closure of its eastern border with Russia due to what it describes as Moscow’s manipulation of asylum seekers from the Middle East and Africa.
Interior Minister Mari Rantanen emphasized that there have been no indications of a change in Russia’s behavior regarding this issue. Instead, she stated that the information received reaffirms Finland’s assessment that Russia continues its hybrid operation.
Despite Moscow’s denial of using asylum seekers for hybrid attacks, it warned Finland that its recent decision to abandon its traditional non-alignment policy and join NATO in April would result in “countermeasures.”
Rantanen highlighted that there are still “hundreds if not thousands” of third-country migrants waiting on the Russian side of the border, anticipating entry into Finland once the border reopens. She expressed concern that this situation is expected to persist for some time.
While acknowledging the challenges faced by residents with family on the Russian side of the border, Rantanen underscored Finland’s priority of prioritizing national security.
Furthermore, asylum seekers will continue to be unable to apply for international protection at any of the crossing points along the 1,340-kilometer border between Finland and Russia
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