Finland edging closer to border lockdown as Russia's weaponized migration influx swells
The Finnish authorities may close all checkpoints that are still operating on Finland’s land border with Russia due to the influx of illegal asylum seekers from Russia, local outlet Iltalehti reported on Nov. 20, citing sources.
The decision may be made as early as Nov. 20, and the border crossings may be closed overnight on Nov. 21-22.
Earlier, Finland decided to close the border crossings of Vaalimaa, Nuijamaa, Imatra and Niirala.
At the same time, Finland decided that asylum applications would be accepted only at the Vartius and Salla border crossings.
Previously, Helsinki warned that Russians could transport illegal asylum seekers to Kostomuksha, near the Vartius border crossing. Later, it was reported that this had indeed happened.
Therefore, the Finnish government decided to prepare for the possibility of closing the entire eastern border to send a strong message to Russia that Finland will not accept the use of migration as a means of pressure.
Read also: Gas and communication lines damaged between Finland and Estonia, Swedes and Fins suspect Russia
Intelligence reports indicate that the government has assessed that the Russian authorities are involved in the transportation of illegal asylum seekers to the Finnish border.
According to the outlet, the Finnish government has concluded that the right to asylum guaranteed by international agreements has lost its relevance on the eastern border due to the actions of the Russian Federation.
Finland should have the right to return illegal asylum seekers to Russia, which accepted them to its territory and most of whom had a residence permit in Russia, Iltalehti writes.
However, the Finnish government believes it is unlikely that Russia will take people back.
Overnight on Nov. 17-18, Finland closed four border crossing points located in the east along the border with Russia. The restrictions will be in effect until Feb. 18, 2024, but may be extended if necessary.
Finnish border guards have reported that in recent months a large number of people without entry documents have tried to enter Finland through checkpoints on the southeastern border.
On Nov. 19, Finland began erecting a temporary fence at the Vartius checkpoint near the border with Russia. The Finnish military was sent to help the border guards.
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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
