Finland is set to close four of its nine border crossings with Russia in an effort to stem the influx of asylum seekers, Prime Minister Petteri Orpo announced, according to Reuters. This decision comes amidst heightened tensions in the region.
Neighbouring Norway, which shares an Arctic border with Russia, is also prepared to shut its border on short notice if necessary, stated Norwegian Justice Minister Emilie Enger Mehl.
Finland, a member of the European Union and a recent entrant to NATO, shares a 1,340 km border with Russia, which also serves as an external frontier of the EU. This move reflects the growing concern in Europe regarding border security and immigration amid ongoing geopolitical shifts.