Finland's Prime Minister Calls for EU Action to Secure Border Amid Migrant Influx from Russia
Finland, a EU member, is experiencing an increase in migrant arrivals from countries such as Syria and Somalia via its border with Russia.
Prime Minister Petteri Orpo accused Russia of weaponizing migration against Finland and the EU, an allegation denied by Moscow.
In response, Finland closed eight of its nine border checkpoints with Russia, leaving only one open for rail travel and cargo.
Orpo called for EU measures to help Finland stop the influx, while European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen agreed and stated that the EU Commission is working with the migrants' countries of origin.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen warned of security concerns regarding Russia's instrumentalization of migrants to put pressure on Finland.
In response, Finland is drafting legislation to allow border guards to block asylum seekers from entering the country.
Von der Leyen and Finnish Interior Minister Maria Ohisalo flew over the border to assess the situation, with von der Leyen expressing concern over Putin's focus on Finland due to its support of Ukraine and NATO membership.
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is running for re-election as the head of the EU's executive branch, representing the European People's Party (EPP).
Security is a key focus for the EPP ahead of the June European Parliament elections.
Many migrants, primarily from the Middle East and Africa, have sought asylum in Finland, an EU and NATO member with a population of 5.6 million.
Finland joined NATO in April 2023, ending its neutrality following the country's defeat by the Soviet Union during World War II.
Sweden also joined NATO in March, a significant shift in Europe's post-Cold War security landscape in response to Russia's aggression against Ukraine.