LONDON DAILY ARCHIVE

Finland has again sealed its border with Russia just hours after reopening, effective Friday night until January 14, to stem a fresh surge of asylum seekers

Interior Minister Mari Rantanen reported swift arrivals at newly opened Vaalimaa and Niirala checkpoints, with at least 60 people turning up shortly after opening.

14 December 2023 · 23:14 UTC

The move comes after previously closing the border amid claims that Russia was funneling migrants to Finnish borders in retribution for Finland's intent to join NATO, charges Russia has denied.

Only Vaalimaa and Niirala had been reopened, with Prime Minister Petteri Orpo citing high risks of Russia perpetuating "instrumentalized immigration."