Finland has extended its border closure with Russia until further notice due to migratory issues. The Finnish Interior Ministry announced the decision to address concerns about Russian unauthorized immigration.
Late last year, a spike in asylum-seekers without visas crossed the 1,340-kilometer land border between the two nations, prompting the shutdown. The Interior Ministry warned of instrumentalized migration, implying Russia may be helping migrants reach Finland.
Middle Eastern and African nations including Afghanistan, Egypt, Iraq, Somalia, Syria, and Yemen send most migrants. Despite its EU membership and 5.6 million inhabitants, Finland has seen a significant influx of asylum-seekers.
Prime Minister Petteri Orpo’s Cabinet has repeatedly prolonged border checkpoint closures, blaming Russia of sending refugees to the Finland-Russia border. The Kremlin denies these charges, blaming Finland’s reluctance to talk.
All eight land border crossings between Finland and Russia have been closed for people since December, while a southeastern cargo rail checkpoint remains open. Three marine checkpoints will close on April 15, according to the authorities.
Finland is part of the EU’s passport-free Schengen zone, so people may request asylum through airports and harbours despite the border barrier. Finland’s border management is crucial due to its placement on the EU’s northern external border and NATO’s northeastern flank.
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