Finland closes checkpoints on the border with Russia
The Finnish government announced the closure of its borders with Russia. According to Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo, published in Ilta-Sanomat, restrictions on border crossings will come into effect on the night of November 18.
During the press conference, Orpo said that Finland was closing four checkpoints on the eastern border: Imatra, Niirala, Nuijamaa and Vaalimaa.
The decision was made after consultations with neighboring countries and the European Union, according to the Prime Minister. Interior Minister Mari Rantanen noted that this is a response to the growing number of migrants seeking asylum. She emphasized that the border area will remain peaceful and the situation on the border will be monitored.
Frank-Walter Steinmeier, President of Germany, and Sauli Niinistö, President of Finland, have previously accused Russia of helping migrants from third countries cross European borders to destabilize the West. According to Niiniste, Finland is seeing an increase in the number of migrants on the border with Russia, many of whom may be trying to reach Germany.
The Finnish government is also considering a proposal to restrict or completely close border crossings with Russia due to the increase in illegal migration, as reported by Mari Rantanen. She pointed out that attempts to discuss the situation with the Russian side did not lead to a solution.
In addition, Finland has recently decided to ban Russians from entering the country on bicycles.
