In Finland, it is urgently proposed to limit the possibility of crossing the Russian-Finnish border, in particular, to close checkpoints and to concentrate the reception of asylum applications in one place.
Finland is preparing to close checkpoints on the border with Russia
The chief of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Mari Rantanen, said that her ministry is urgently preparing a proposal that allows, if necessary, to limit the crossing of the border between Russia and Finland.
Restrictions may take effect under certain conditions:
For example, if it is necessary to maintain public order, ensure national security or prevent a serious threat to citizens' health, Rantanen said at the press conference.
According to the minister, the number of illegal immigrants arriving from the Russian Federation is still relatively small, but in recent days it has increased significantly.
The activities of the Russian authorities have changed in such a way that it became possible to get from Russia to Finland, despite the lack of the necessary documents. That is, we are talking about illegal migration.
She added that the situation was already discussed today at the level of the president and ministers responsible for the country's foreign policy and security.
The Yle reports that since the beginning of August, the number of asylum seekers who tried to cross the eastern border of Finland without the necessary documents has increased significantly.
These are citizens of third countries who used Russia as a transit country. After crossing the border, they claim asylum in Finland.
Rantanen previously called this phenomenon “illegal entry into the country.”
Finland will no longer allow cyclists from the Russian Federation into the country
Since November 9, the border service of Finland has decided not to allow Russian cyclists to enter the country in order to prevent the entry of illegal migrants.
Over the past week, about 30 people tried to travel by bicycle from the Russian Federation to Finland.
The Border Service of Finland notes that these were previously short local trips for one day, but more and more often foreigners arrive without the necessary documents.
