Tensions on Finland-Russia Border

Written by Connor Foster | December 3, 2023

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Over the past week, Finland has taken measures to secure their border after a spike in migrants entering the country from Russia. Leaders in Helsinki have openly accused the Russian government of facilitating this large migrant flow into Finland. Russia has denied these accusations and expressed disapproval over Finland’s decision to close the border, ultimately calling Finland’s actions “Russophobic”. These recent developments have only worsened the already strained relationship between the two countries that was intensified after Finland joined NATO in April 2023. The European Union has demonstrated solidarity with Finland by sending officers and equipment from the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex) to aid Finland’s border control efforts.

              During the past month alone it is estimated that 700 asylum seekers have crossed from Russia into Finland, mostly originating from Somalia, Morocco, Yemen, Kenya, Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria. Both Russian and Finnish officials have acknowledged the danger facing the migrants that are stranded along the border. Many do not have adequate food, shelter, or clothing, especially considering the harsh winter conditions they are facing as they await their next step. It is yet unclear what either country plans to do to solve this developing crisis.