Mikko Lehmus, a senior official in charge of the Situation and Risk Analysis Center within the Finnish Border Guards, indicated that Finland has not ruled out the possibility of a full border closure with Russia. In a comprehensive discussion with Yle, the official outlined that national leaders are weighing multiple scenarios to respond to a potential surge in Russian travelers, should such a situation arise.
He stated clearly that entry could be refused if visitors arrive without a valid reason, and that border crossing points can be shut as a last resort under the provisions of the Border Guard Act. The statements underscored that the government retains the option to implement drastic measures if there are threats to national security or public order.
The official emphasized that Helsinki would consider closing the border if there were any clear risk to state security. The Finnish border authorities have prepared for a wide range of eventualities, including the possibility of thousands of unauthorized entrants, though he stressed that such a scenario involving Russian nationals is not anticipated. At the same time, a representative from the ministry refrained from naming a specific threshold of visitors that would compel leaders to opt for a complete border shutdown.
In related developments, Finland has begun renewing key railway links near the border to support improved logistics and mobility for security operations in the region, reflecting ongoing attention to border readiness and regional safeguards.