Finland Accuses Russia of Driving Migrant Surge as NATO Retaliation

Over 900 migrants have arrived since August, prompting Finland to close most border checkpoints and seek EU assistance.

Finland accuses Russia of driving migrants to its border as retaliation for Finland's NATO membership, causing a sudden surge in asylum-seekers.
More than 900 migrants, mostly from the Middle East and Africa, have arrived in Finland since August, with over 800 arriving in November alone.
Finnish authorities have closed seven border checkpoints, leaving only one Arctic crossing point open for asylum-seekers.
Finland has requested assistance from the EU border agency Frontex, which will send reinforcements and equipment to the Finnish border.
Russia denies encouraging the migrants and criticizes Finland's border closures, suggesting a mutually acceptable solution should be sought.