TheLittleTwentieth – Renowned Papers Edition, AI Infused

Local sources from Norway: Valtioneuvosto, Iltalehti.
UK coverage: Al Jazeera English.

Finland has closed all but one of its border crossings with Russia due to a surge in the number of migrants trying to enter the country. According to the Finnish government, Russia has been accused of assisting in the transportation of these migrants, many of whom lack proper documentation. However, Russia has denied these allegations.

The Finnish government’s decision to close the majority of its border crossings highlights the growing concern over the influx of migrants and the need to secure national borders. The government has closed the Vaalimaa, Nuijamaa, Imatra, and Niirala border crossing points starting from November 18, and the Kuusamo, Salla, and Vartius border crossing points starting from November 24. Entry and exit on the Finnish-Russian land border will only be allowed through the Raja-Jooseppi crossing point, which is valid until December 23, 2023.

The situation is further complicated by the cold temperatures in the northern border region, which can reach nearly 20 degrees below freezing at night. This poses a risk of frostbite and potential need for first aid for those seeking asylum at the eastern border. In response, the Finnish Red Cross has sent volunteers to the Vartius and Salla border crossings to provide first aid and assess the health conditions of arrivals.

The Finnish government has emphasized that strict adherence to legal grounds is followed in all operations, and that individuals in particularly vulnerable positions are identified and subjected to processes in accordance with legislation. Additionally, the government has sent a message on social media to potential countries of departure that this is not a way forward.

Overall, the Finnish government’s decision to close the majority of its border crossings with Russia is a reflection of the growing concern over the influx of migrants and the need to secure national borders. The cold temperatures in the northern border region pose a risk of frostbite and potential need for first aid for those seeking asylum, and the Finnish Red Cross has been providing assistance in first aid and food supply. Moving forward, it is important for Finland to continue to adhere to legal grounds and send a message on social media to potential countries of departure that this is not a way forward.