European Union official von der Leyen visits the Finland
COPENHAGEN, Denmark (AP) — The head of the European Union’s executive branch said Friday that Finland’s decision to close its border crossings with Russia over a surge in migrants was a security matter for the whole 27-member bloc to consider.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen made the remarks during a trip to the frontier, visiting a part of the border located in southeastern Finland.
“We all know how (Russian President Vladimir) Putin and his allies instrumentalize migrants to test our defenses and to try to destabilize us,” von der Leyen said. “Now Putin is focusing on Finland, and this is no doubt in response to your firm support of Ukraine and your accession to NATO.”
On April 4, Finland decided to extend the closure of its border crossing points with Russia “until further notice” because of what the government says is a high risk of organized migration being orchestrated by Moscow. Finland’s government has closed eight of its nine checkpoints with Russia. The only one that remains open is dedicated to rail travel only, and cargo trains mainly run through it.
Related articles
Old mill where nursery rhyme Humpty Dumpty is said to have originated could be yours for £650,000
The former mill where the nursery rhyme Humpty Dumpty is said to have originated from has gone on th2024-04-20Temperatures plunge to historic lows as severe cold fronts impact most of China
By Du Qiongfang (Global Times) 10:16, December 18, 2023Tourists enjoy the snow scenery at the Huangs2024-04-20New Year's Day holiday travel plans heating up
(China Daily) 08:38, December 21, 2023Train tickets and tour products are hot sellers for the coming2024-04-20Temperatures plunge to historic lows as severe cold fronts impact most of China
By Du Qiongfang (Global Times) 10:16, December 18, 2023Tourists enjoy the snow scenery at the Huangs2024-04-20Dubai rain: Emirates again halts local flight check
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Long-haul carrier Emirates said Friday it would again halt local2024-04-20Beijing, Hebei province brace for forecast snow
By Du Juan and Zhang Yu (China Daily) 10:16, December 14, 2023Residents in Beijing enjoy the first s2024-04-20
atest comment