Finland is taking a significant step to bolster its national security by proposing a ban on most Russian citizens purchasing property within its borders. This move, announced by Defence Minister Antti Hakkanen on Monday, comes as relations between Finland and Russia have plummeted since the latter’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
The proposed ban aims to prevent potential hostile influence from Russia, particularly as Finland joined NATO in April 2023, ending its decades-long policy of non-alignment. The ban would not apply to dual citizens or Russians with permanent residence in Finland or other EU nations. However, it is subject to expert consultations before being put to a vote in parliament.
Finland’s concerns are not unfounded. The country is already monitoring around 3,500 properties linked to Russian owners, indicating the extent of Russian investment in the country. Helsinki has been actively seeking to limit Russian property acquisitions near strategic locations based on existing regulations. In October 2022, three such purchases were blocked, followed by another three in January 2023.
Furthermore, Finland has shut all border crossings with Russia and accused Moscow of weaponizing migration by encouraging Asian and African migrants to seek asylum in Finland, further straining relations. The proposed ban on property purchases is the latest in a series of measures aimed at safeguarding Finland’s national security amidst the increasingly volatile geopolitical landscape.
