Finland Builds Border Fence to Counter Russia’s Tactics
Background on Finland’s Border Fence
Finland has enhanced its eastern border to curb a strategy by Russia involving migrants. Interior Minister Mari Rantanen introduced a 120-mile fence near the Nuijamaa crossing. This action follows the December 2023 closure of Finland’s 1,340 km border with Russia, which is the longest such border for any EU or NATO nation. The closure occurred after over 1,300 migrants arrived without visas. Finland accused Russia of creating instability by directing asylum seekers to this border, a claim denied by the Kremlin.
Finland and NATO
Earlier in the year, Finland joined NATO, reversing its long-standing neutrality due to perceived threats after Russia invaded Ukraine. Sari Arho Havrén from the Royal United Services Institute emphasized the ongoing threat at the Finnish border. Finland’s move to strengthen its borders coincided with a heightened security approach as a NATO member.
Current Measures and Legislation
Rantanen emphasized the necessity of the border fence, pointing to security threats from Russia to Europe. “Every state must safeguard its own security and borders,” she remarked, according to Finnish outlet YLE. Havrén views the fence as a vital crowd control measure, addressing Russia’s alleged orchestrated migration strategies. Finland plans to extend the Border Security Act, restricting border entry due to severe migration incidents until 2028. The act, as it stands, empowers Finland to limit asylum applications and turn back individuals if deemed part of hybrid pressure tactics.
Closed Borders and Defense Strengthening
All land crossings between Finland and Russia remain closed indefinitely, as per government decisions. Havrén stated the measures reflect concerns over potential Russian actions. Additionally, Finland is enhancing its military defenses, demonstrated by the Finnish defense firm Patria constructing its first F-35 engine. Finland has also contracted with Lockheed Martin for 64 F-35A jets, expected to begin arrival this year.
Details on the Fence Construction
In October 2022, Finnish political leaders agreed on a partial fence along the eastern border. Initial construction started in Pelkola, near Imatra, in April 2023. The fence stretches 80 miles in the southeast, with additional segments in North Karelia, Kainuu, and Finnish Lapland. The project, costing 356 million euros ($413 million), includes patrol paths, loudspeakers, night lighting, and surveillance equipment. Similar border defenses have been established by Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland on their boundaries with Belarus.