Finland Accuses Russia of Orchestrating Migrant Crisis on its Eastern Border

Finland’s recent accession to NATO was met with threats of retaliation from Russia. This year, an unprecedented number of migrants from the Middle East and Africa have been arriving at Finland’s eastern border with Russia. Finnish officials are pointing fingers at Russia, suggesting this is a deliberate act of discord in response to Finland joining NATO. This article examines the ongoing migrant situation along Finland’s 1,340-kilometer border with Russia.

The phenomenon of asylum seekers at Finnish border checkpoints isn’t new, but there’s been a marked increase recently. Official records indicate over 900 migrants arrived since August, with a significant spike in November. These individuals, coming from nations like Syria, Yemen, Somalia, Iraq, and Afghanistan, are often ill-equipped for Finland’s winter, many arriving on bicycles. Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen disclosed evidence indicating active Russian involvement in facilitating migrants’ travel to the border, a departure from previous patterns.

Finland’s Response

Reacting swiftly, Finland closed several border checkpoints, leaving only one Arctic crossing open for asylum seekers. Additionally, Finnish troops have been deployed to reinforce the border with barbed wire and concrete barriers. Assistance has also been sought from the EU border agency, Frontex. Prime Minister Petteri Orpo described the situation as a severe disruption of border security, though authorities maintain that they have the situation under control.

Russia denies any involvement in the migrant surge and expresses regret over Finland’s border closures. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova suggested Finland should have sought a mutually beneficial solution or clarification.

Hybrid Warfare Accusations

Western nations have accused Russia and Belarus of exploiting migrants as tools in destabilizing Western democracies. This strategy, part of what’s termed “hybrid warfare,” includes disinformation, election meddling, and cyber attacks. Finnish Foreign Minister Valtonen asserts that Russia is using migrants as instruments in this warfare, especially post-Finland’s NATO membership. Geopolitics expert Klaus Dodds supports this view, highlighting Russia’s tactic of creating societal divisions.

Historical Context and European Perspectives

EU Home Affairs Commissioner Ylva Johansson drew parallels between the current situation and past events, recalling Russia’s similar tactics in 2015 and 2016. Finnish President Sauli Niinistö also noted past instances of Russia allowing migrants access to Finnish borders as a response to Finland’s increased NATO cooperation.

The migration pressure has not been unique to Finland. NATO nations like Poland, Lithuania, and Latvia have experienced similar issues on their borders with Belarus, Russia’s ally. Latvian Prime Minister Evika Siliņa commented on the unpredictability of the intentions of Lukashenko and Putin.

Broader Impact of Migration Pressure

The influx of migrants challenges democratic principles, particularly the commitment to asylum rights, highlighting the fragility of democratic systems. Europe has faced migration challenges for years, leading to a rise in far-right parties and social divisions.

Internal Debate and Arctic Crossings in Finland

In Finland, there’s an ongoing debate balancing national security against human rights concerns. The government has kept the Raja-Jooseppi checkpoint open in Lapland, complying with international agreements to allow asylum seekers access.

Despite its remote location, this checkpoint continues to see a steady flow of migrants, underscoring the complexity and urgency of the situation.

Reported by Vanessa Gera from Warsaw, Poland.

For more on migration issues, visit AP’s migration coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Finland-Russia Migrant Crisis

More about Finland-Russia Migrant Crisis

• Finland’s NATO Membership and Migrant Crisis
• Russia’s Hybrid Warfare Tactics
• EU Response to Migration Challenges
• Poland and Baltic States Border Situations
• Impact of Migration on European Politics