Overview

• Russia expelled nine Finnish diplomats and closed Finland's consulate in St. Petersburg in retaliation for Finland expelling nine Russian diplomats.
• Russia expressed strong protest against Finland's anti-Russian policy which it sees as threatening its security.
• The expulsions and consulate closure will take effect October 1.
• Finland is considering countermeasures like closing Russia's consulate in Turku.
• The escalating tensions come as Finland considers joining NATO, concerning Russia.