Finland PM Calls for Stronger Border Security Against Russia

Prime Minister Petteri Orpo has emphasized the importance of strengthening Finland’s security along its extensive border with Russia. He highlighted the unique challenges facing the nation and urged greater European cooperation in ensuring border protection and collective defense.
During talks in Helsinki with European Commission leadership, Orpo underscored Finland’s role as an external EU border state and its active contributions to supporting Ukraine. He noted that the EU’s next multiannual financial framework allocates EUR 1.6 billion to Finland for border control, a billion more than the current level. This, he said, would bolster Eastern and Northern Finland’s security and resilience as part of a comprehensive defense strategy.
Orpo warned that the threat from Russia persists beyond the war in Ukraine, stressing that “Putin cannot be trusted” and that Europe must remain united, determined, and serious about defense. He also drew attention to Russian military movements toward Europe’s eastern edge and the monitoring of maritime traffic, including the activities of Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet.”
The visit also included discussions with Finland’s leadership on security measures and regional cooperation to strengthen European defense.