Bicyclists travelling from the Russian Federation into Finland have faced a new restriction in the southeast region since November 9. The three key border checkpoints closest to St. Petersburg, Nuijamaa, Imatra, and Vaalimaa, have been impacted by this measure, which effectively blocks bicycle entry. Reports from border authorities indicate that the Vaalimaa crossing is among those affected and that cyclists attempting to cross receive the latest updates on entry rules from border guards stationed there.
A border guard spokesperson detailed that, beginning on November 9, entry by bicycle into the entire southeast region of Finland is prohibited. The official did not provide a formal justification for the ban and did not clarify whether other Finnish border crossing points are subject to the same prohibition.
Observations shared on social networks by eyewitnesses indicate that Russian border guards are notifying cyclists of the new restriction. At several border crossings, road signs have appeared signaling that bicyclists are not allowed to enter Finland, and Finnish border guards have been observed directing cyclists back toward the Russian side. The practical effect for travelers is a need to seek alternative routes or modes of transportation when crossing into Finland by land.
In related political developments, former Finnish president Sauli Niinistö commented that Finland could expect increased difficulties at its Russian border in the future, highlighting a shift in the regional security environment. The broader context includes Finland’s ongoing border security measures and the careful management of cross-border traffic in light of evolving geopolitical tensions.
Earlier actions tied to border management included Finland’s plan to fortify the border with a new barrier project. Officials announced the construction of an additional 72-kilometer barrier along the Russian frontier to further bolster border controls in 2023–2024. The aim has been to strengthen physical security and to better manage cross-border movement amid broader regional considerations.
Separately, on September 28, Finland and Norway intensified checks at border points for vehicles arriving from Russia. This broader increase in control reflects a pattern of heightened scrutiny at border crossings in response to security and governance concerns across the region. The measure underscores how border policy has shifted in recent years, influencing travel and commerce across these frontier zones.
Additionally, Russia moved to suspend a cross-border cooperation agreement with Finland, signaling a shift in the contractual framework governing bilateral collaboration. The suspension marks a change in the legal and administrative basis for inter-country exchanges and has implications for ordinary cross-border activities, including the movement of people and goods along shared boundary routes.