Finland closes 4 checkpoints on border with Russia until 18 February

Finland has closed four of its eight border crossings with Russia during the night of 17-18 November due to an increase in migration. The restrictions are set to be in effect until 18 February 2024, with the possibility of extension if necessary. Source: European Pravda

Details: The Imatra, Niirala, Nuijamaa, and Vaalimaa border crossing points, located along the border of Eastern Finland, stopped working at midnight.

Concrete barriers and temporary fences, such as a fixed metal fence or a temporary barbed wire fence, were installed there during the last day. Barriers, which are used to control traffic at border crossing points during normal times, were also lowered. The country's border service said a total of 163 asylum seekers arrived at border crossings in southeastern Finland that were closed on Friday, and that there were 300 of them during the entire week.

Incidents have happened due to the large number of people trying to cross the border. Yle broadcasting company wrote that tear gas was used against a migrant who tried to break through the border in Niirali on Friday evening. There were cases when groups of asylum seekers arrived at crossing points on bicycles.

Nuijamaa border crossing pointPhoto: YLE

At the same time, applications for the granting of international protection could be submitted at the Vartius and Salla northern border crossing points, which will be opened together with Kuusamo and Raja Jooseppi.

If necessary, the Finnish government is ready to close all the checkpoints on the border with Russia.

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