Finland decides to close its border with Russia, for 2 weeks to reduce influx of asylum seekers

Finland has decided to completely shut its border with Russia for the next two weeks, aiming to stem the influx of asylum seekers, government said on Tuesday.

Last week, Finland closed all but one border post, but now, even the Arctic crossing will be restricted to goods transport only.

The move comes in response to a surge in asylum seekers, with approximately 900 individuals, including those from Kenya, Morocco, Pakistan, Somalia, Syria, and Yemen, entering Finland from Russia in November alone. The temporary closure ensures that only freight traffic will be permitted between the two nations.