HELSINKI, Finland – Finland is taking steps to address an influx of migrants arriving from Russia at its border crossings. The Finnish government has announced plans to install barriers at four of its border crossings with Russia in response to a surge in the number of migrants coming into the country.

The decision to erect barriers comes after Finland accused Russian authorities of deliberately directing migrants to the border crossings in retaliation for Helsinki’s decision to increase defense cooperation with the United States. Russian authorities have denied the allegations, dismissing them as unfounded.

The four border crossings where barriers will be installed are Vaalimaa, Nuijamaa, Imatra and Niirala in southeastern Finland. The Finnish Border Guard stated that the purpose of the barriers is to prevent entry and address the changes in Russia’s border policy.

According to the Border Guard, approximately 300 asylum seekers, primarily from Iraq, Yemen, Somalia and Syria, have arrived in Finland this week. Nearly 100 individuals entered Finland from Russia on Friday alone. As a result, Finland will only permit asylum seekers arriving via Russia to submit their applications at two northern border crossings, Salla and Vartius, beginning on Saturday.

In response to the situation, the European Union’s border agency, Frontex, has announced that it will send officers to Finland to assist in safeguarding the border. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has expressed gratitude to the Finnish authorities for protecting the EU’s external border and condemned Russia’s use of migrants for political ends.

These developments reflect a concerted effort by Finland to address the challenge of managing the influx of migrants arriving from Russia, as tensions between the two countries continue to simmer. Despite Helsinki’s efforts to tighten border control, it remains obligated under international treaties and EU law to allow asylum seekers to seek protection.

As Finland takes steps to reinforce its border security, the situation highlights the complex dynamics at play in the region and the broader implications of geopolitical tensions on migration. The measures taken by Finland underscore the country’s commitment to upholding its border policies while navigating the broader challenges posed by the influx of migrants.

In summary, Finland’s decision to install barriers at four of its border crossings with Russia underscores the government’s efforts to address the surge in migrant arrivals. The move comes amid tensions between Finland and Russia, with Helsinki accusing Moscow of orchestrating the influx of migrants as a retaliatory measure. As the situation unfolds, Finland remains committed to upholding its border policies while fulfilling its international obligations regarding asylum seekers.