Finland Times

As from Sunday, the two northern border crossing points may only be used by Finnish, Russian and Belarusian citizens, and their accompanying family members irrespective of their nationality, said a statement from the Ministry of the Interior.

The restrictions aim to prevent illegal and uncontrolled migration and related threats, and reduce opportunities for crime. Another aim is to enhance the effectiveness of measures taken in Finland and Russia in the past few weeks to combat illegal migration and its facilitation

Cross-border traffic at the two border crossing points will be restricted temporarily for a maximum period of 180 days.

The restrictions were originally confirmed when president Sauli Niinistö met with Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin in Moscow on 22 March.