Finland is considering closing some or all of its border crossings with Russia to stem the flow of undocumented migrants from the Middle East into the country.
"We can restrict traffic in the border area, close some or even all border crossings with Russia. We are also considering setting up reception centers for asylum seekers at the border," Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo said on November 14.
Prime Minister Orpo's statement came as he commented on the increase in illegal migrants entering Finland from the country's eastern border with Russia. He stressed that the Finnish government 's message is clear: the country wants to secure its borders.
Finnish security personnel stand guard at the border fence with Russia in Pelkola on May 30. Photo: Reuters
Finnish Interior Minister Mari Rantanen said earlier that the country was preparing to restrict traffic on the border with Russia.
Finland has recorded around 60 undocumented refugees crossing its eastern border this week, up from 71 last week. According to the Finnish border agency, these people are not Russian citizens, but mostly from the Middle East, transiting through Russia before entering Finland.
Finland began erecting a wire mesh security fence, equipped with a surveillance system, on its border with Russia in April. By the end of 2026, about 200 km of fence will be built in the most important sections along the border between the two countries.
Finland shares a 1,300km border with Russia, but there is little human activity. The border between the two countries was previously only separated by a low fence, mainly to prevent stray cattle and livestock.
Location of Finland and Russia. Graphic: Wikimedia
Ngoc Anh (According to TASS )
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