In a passionate address to the European Parliament, Finland's Prime Minister Petteri Orpo called on the European Union (EU) to follow Finland's lead in bolstering security on its fringes. Orpo highlighted the growing hybrid threats faced by his country, including Russia's alarming weaponization of migration towards the Finnish border. He emphasized the need for comprehensive strategies that encompass both physical defenses and societal resilience.

Finland, having officially joined NATO last April, has emerged as a "preparedness superpower" due to its historical and geographic circumstances. Prime Minister Orpo emphasized the importance of Finland sharing its experiences and strategies with other EU nations to enhance resilience in the face of conventional and hybrid threats.

The Prime Minister specifically raised concerns about Russia's "worrisome" manipulation of migration, warning that an increase in migrant numbers at the Finland-Russia border posed not only a threat to national security but also an existential danger to the entire EU. Orpo urged an urgent review of existing EU legislation to ensure its effectiveness in combating hybrid attacks. He called for enhanced defense measures, asserting that Europe must send a resolute message of commitment to the safety of its borders.

The deteriorating relations with Russia, primarily due to the conflict in Ukraine, have significantly impacted the border economy between Finland and Russia. Tourism and cross-border trade have come to a halt, prompting Prime Minister Orpo to stress the need for measures addressing the security of individuals living in these affected areas. Fearing an exodus from these regions, Orpo cautioned that the stability of the EU could be gravely undermined.

Recognizing the importance of EU-level policies aimed at revitalizing border regions and securing them against external threats, Orpo emphasized the crucial role these areas play in both national security and societal unity. He urged the EU to prioritize the security of its external borders and develop measures that would rejuvenate these regions.

Finland has maintained the closure of its eastern border with Russia until April 14, citing Russia's attempts to exploit and manipulate migration as the reason for the extended closure. The border closure, initiated in November, aims to prevent Russia from transporting undocumented migrants and leaving them at the Finnish border.

The Finnish interior ministry reiterated its stance on the matter, blaming Russia for causing human suffering and using people as tools. The closure of the border serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing tensions and challenges faced by Finland in managing its border security.

As Finland calls on the EU to bolster security measures, it remains to be seen how the bloc will respond to these pressing concerns. The lessons learned from Finland's comprehensive approach to preparedness and resilience could potentially enhance the security and stability of the entire European Union.