Finland’s government has put forward a proposal to ban most Russian citizens from buying real estate within the country, citing concerns over national security. This move, announced by Defense Minister Antti Hakkanen, aims to prevent potential hostile influences against Finland, especially after the country’s recent NATO membership strained its relationship with Russia.
The proposed ban would not apply to Russians with dual citizenship or those who are permanent residents of Finland or other European Union countries. Currently, around 3,500 Russian-owned properties are under surveillance by Finnish authorities due to their proximity to strategic sites.
This proposal follows a series of incidents that have further deteriorated the relationship between the two nations, including border issues and airspace violations. Finland had already closed its land border with Russia in December 2023, amid accusations that Moscow was deliberately destabilizing the region by facilitating the arrival of undocumented migrants. The proposal is subject to further consultations and will require approval by Parliament before it can be enacted.
