The Kremlin expressed disappointment over Finland’s decision to shut down several border crossings and rejected Finnish officials’ allegations that Russia had prompted a surge in migrants to punish Finland for joining NATO.
In response to suspicions of Moscow orchestrating a migration crisis, the Finnish Prime Minister disclosed that Finland is set to close three of the last four remaining border crossings with Russia, leaving only the Raja-Jooseppi crossing operational. The decision comes after a significant influx of around 600 undocumented migrants, predominantly from the Middle East and Africa, arrived in Finland in November. This marked a drastic increase from the few dozen arrivals in September and October.
To manage the flow of migrants, Finland has initiated efforts to ramp up security measures, such as erecting physical barriers and fortifications at the border crossings, a move that has prompted Moscow’s expression of dismay regarding Finland’s decision to close the border.
The Finnish Foreign Minister, Elina Valtonen, accused Russia of weaponizing migration, labeling it a form of “hybrid warfare” against Finland. Valtonen mentioned that Russia has allowed individuals to cross into Finland without proper documentation and has actively assisted them in reaching the border zone. In retaliation, the Russian Foreign Ministry voiced readiness to collaborate with Finland in resolving the border issue, emphasizing the need for both nations to engage in a dialogue to address their concerns.
Despite Finland’s recent membership in NATO and Russia’s border maneuvering, the true motive behind Russia’s actions remains unclear, leaving analysts puzzled about the primary objective behind Moscow’s activities along the Russia-Finland border.
