Finland is beginning to strengthen its border with Russia against the background of the war in Ukraine and threats from the Russian leadership to the West. On Thursday, July 7, the countryʼs parliament approved a draft law on the construction of barriers with the possibility of completely closing the 1,300-kilometer section of the common border in case of exceptional circumstances.
The Guardian writes about it.
The vote took place at a time when Finland is in the process of accelerated accession to NATO. The approved bill gives the government the right to build fences near the border and close crossings if necessary, for example, to stem the flow of refugees.
They plan to start construction of barriers as soon as possible, funding for this was allocated in the spring.
- On July 5, Finland and Sweden signed protocols for joining NATO. After ratification by all parliaments, NATO will determine the date from which Finland and Sweden will officially become new members of the Alliance.
- The leadership of Russia threatened Finland and Sweden with blows for joining NATO, but the military presence near the borders of these countries has not yet increased, although it constantly declares a threat from NATO. According to Finnish mass media, Russia has sent part of its troops to Ukraine.