Finland Still Has No Plans to Open Border with Russia

Finland still has no plans to open its border with Russia. This was announced by Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo.

“We understand that there are people behind the eastern border whose aim is to illegally enter Finland. It is clear that we cannot reconsider our decision to keep the border closed,” he said.

At the same time, Orpo noted that measures need to be prepared to prevent illegal movements of people while the border remains closed.

The decision to close the border with Russia was made by Finland at the end of November last year. Finnish authorities stated that this decision was made to prevent the flow of refugees. They accused Russia of directing refugees towards Finland. Russia has denied Finland's allegations.

On January 11, 2024, Finland decided to extend its closure of the border with Russia until February 11. The Finnish Ministry of the Interior is expected to make a new decision on this issue at a cabinet meeting scheduled for February 8.