Finland Shuts All Land Borders With Russia Over Hybrid Threat

Finland is closing all land border crossings with Russia starting May 17, the Finnish Border Guard announced. The government made this swift decision based on new intelligence reports indicating an imminent and elevated hybrid threat from Russia. Interior Minister Mari Rantanen cited a "concrete and elevated risk of hybrid influence operations" as the reason for the temporary closure. The closure affects four key checkpoints: Vaalimaa, Nuijamaa, Imatra, and Vartius. Finland has previously closed border crossings due to Russian hybrid activity, but this marks the first time all land borders have been shut simultaneously. The Finnish government has not specified an end date for the closure, leaving it open-ended based on the evolving security situation. The decision comes amid ongoing tensions between Finland and its eastern neighbor, with Helsinki citing a pattern of hybrid attacks including disinformation campaigns and migrant flows. This move is part of Finland's broader security policy shift since joining NATO, aimed at protecting national sovereignty and public safety. The closure will impact both passenger and freight traffic, though alternative routes via sea and air remain open. Authorities urge travelers to check official updates before planning cross-border trips.