Border Guards Begin Interrogating Finns Entering Russia

Russian border service employees have started interrogating Finns entering Russia regarding the purpose of their visit and their attitude toward military service in their home country. This has begun since Finland joined NATO. This was reported by the YLE broadcasting corporation.

Journalists have discovered that in April, there were at least four instances of interrogation at the Brusnichnoye border crossing in the Leningrad region, where interviewed Finns refused to reveal their names for fear of future issues with Russian authorities. After the interrogation, they were allowed to cross the border. Notably, similar practices of questioning were not recorded before.

On May 15, one of the interrogated Finns stated that shortly after crossing the border, he was taken to the main building of the Russian border crossing for questioning. He was interrogated by a man in civilian clothing, who was particularly interested in his connections with the Finnish defense forces and also inquired whether he had served in the military. The border guard also asked what connections Finns have with Russia and what they do when visiting the Russian Federation.

"It wasn't a calm interrogation, there was no pressure," one of the Finns said.

It is noteworthy that on April 4, Finland officially became NATO's 31st member, resulting in the total length of the land border with NATO member countries doubling. Military experts have told The Insider that Russia's defense strategy may change, as the country perceives NATO's expansion as a threat, but Finland's decision has only reinforced regional security.