The border situation between Finland and Russia has drawn attention after reports that bicycles were not allowed for Russian travelers entering Finland. This stance was clarified by the press service of the Northwest Customs Service of Russia, which stated that Finnish authorities would not permit Russian citizens to travel by bicycle at the border. According to the spokesman, no official Finnish government document on such a ban had been forwarded to Russia’s ministry. (Source: TASS, through the Northwest Customs Service press office.)
On November 9, it became known that the largest passenger hubs in southeastern Finland — Nuijamaa, Imatra, and St. Petersburg’s nearest crossing point at Vaalimaa — began restricting bicycle entry from the Russian Federation. Eyewitnesses observed Finnish border personnel informing cyclists of new rules and directing them back toward Russia. Signs restricting bicycle access were visibly posted at the border gate, reinforcing the new policy.
Earlier in September, Finnish President Sauli Niinistö remarked that future border relations with Russia could present challenges. He added that Finland, already a NATO member, had heightened security to the maximum level to protect its interests at the border. The remarks signaled a deliberate tightening of border controls amid evolving security dynamics in the region.
There has also been discussion in Finland about the importance of maintaining a constructive relationship with Russia from a Western perspective. The evolving border policy reflects broader geopolitical considerations, balancing national security with international relations and regional stability. (Attribution: Finnish government statements and public remarks cited by regional news agencies.)