The Finnish government, led by Prime Minister Petteri Orpo, is considering returning migrants to Russia without examining their asylum applications. The proposal comes amid a temporary closure of the Finnish-Russian border, which has been extended until mid-January.

Finnish authorities are currently analyzing various scenarios and are prepared to take additional measures if necessary. One such measure could be the return of migrants to Russia without consideration of their asylum requests.

This decision is related to entry restrictions into Finland introduced in November amid an increase in the flow of refugees from third countries through Russia. First of all, entry by bicycles was limited, then all land border crossings with Russia were completely closed until January 14, with the exception of rail freight traffic through Vainikkala.

In addition, amendments to the Aliens Act are planned, which will restrict the freedom of movement of asylum seekers in Finland and their entry into other EU countries while their applications are being processed.

Russia's reaction to these measures is still unknown, but earlier the press secretary of the Russian President Dmitry Peskov expressed regret about the Russophobic position of the Finnish authorities and emphasized Russia's compliance with all border instructions.