Finnish government proposes ban on Russians buying real estate

Reuters reported the information.

According to the proposal, the ban on real estate purchases would not apply to dual nationals and Russians permanently residing in Finland or other EU countries, and is subject to expert consultations before further voting in parliament.

"The regulations are aimed at preventing possible hostile influences against Finland," he said.

According to Häkkänen, Finland is already tracking about 3,500 properties in the country linked to Russian owners.

The agency noted that for some time now, Helsinki has been trying to limit the acquisition of real estate by Russian citizens near strategic facilities, relying on existing rules, blocking three deals in October last year and three more in January this year

The Russian-Finnish border situation

On November 18, 2023, Finland took action due to an uptick in migration, shutting down four out of its eight border crossings with Russia until February 18, 2024. Prime Minister Petteri Orpo accused Russian authorities of assisting illegal migrants in entering Finland.

As of November 22, Finland closed all border crossing points except the northernmost one, Raja-Jooseppi. Prime Minister Orpo emphasized that negotiations with Russia won't happen until the Russian-Ukraine war concludes. He also warned of additional measures if the influx of refugees persists.

Facing continued challenges, on November 28, the Finnish government decided to close its entire border with Russia for the next two weeks to manage the flow of asylum seekers.

Responding to the escalating situation, on December 2, Finland and JEF defense cooperation countries increased Baltic Sea surveillance using 20 warships. Russia claimed this move hinted at a desire for direct conflict, prompting a reaction from Finland's Ministry of Defense.

On December 8, the European Union's border service dispatched 55 personnel to monitor Finland's border with Russia.

In subsequent developments, on December 12, Prime Minister Orpo announced the reopening of two border points, Vaalimaa and Niirala, on December 14. However, other eastern border points remained closed.

Yet, on December 14, the Finnish government reversed its decision to open checkpoints, closing them on the same day. Prime Minister Orpo reiterated a commitment to border security and readiness to take further measures before reopening the border with Russia.

On August 8, Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen said that her country would not open the border with Russia at least until the fall.