This decision came just a day after two border crossings were reopened following a two-week closure. The Finnish government has accused Russia of deliberately sending hundreds of asylum seekers across the border as a form of retaliation for Finland's decision to join NATO.

In November alone, approximately 900 asylum seekers, hailing from countries such as Kenya, Morocco, Pakistan, Somalia, Syria, and Yemen, entered Finland from Russia, marking a significant increase compared to less than one per day in previous months. The Finnish Border Guard has labeled this surge as an orchestrated move by Moscow.

The border closures have strained tensions between the two countries. Finland shares a 1,340-kilometer (830-mile) border with Russia, which also functions as the external border of the European Union. The closure of the border crossings caused traffic congestion and mounting tensions at the Vaalimaa crossing, with frustrated and hungry Russian border crossers, some with children, facing long queues.

On Thursday, 155 asylum seekers arrived through the two open crossing points, while over 200 sought asylum on Friday before the borders closed again. The Finnish Border Guard stated that they were unable to permit border crossers from Finland to pass through, as Russian border authorities were allowing a significant number of migrants to pass through from the Russian side.

The closure, announced to last until January 14, has raised concerns about the rights of refugees, asylum seekers, and migrants. The Council of Europe expressed its apprehension regarding the temporary closure, urging Finland to ensure the possibility of seeking protection for those in need. Minister of Interior Mari Rantanen, speaking on behalf of the anti-immigration Finns Party, dismissed concerns over human rights, noting that asylum could still be sought at other entry points such as harbors and airports.

As Finland continues to grapple with this ongoing border issue, both countries must navigate the delicate balance between national security concerns and humanitarian obligations. The border is slated to reopen on January 14, although the challenge of effectively managing the steady flow of asylum seekers remains a pressing concern.