Finland to ban Russian property

Finland's Defence Minister Antti Hakkanen announced a proposal to ban most Russian citizens and entities from purchasing property in Finland, citing national security concerns amid ongoing tensions following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The proposal aims to prevent potential hostile influences and protect critical infrastructure, with the government keeping an eye on around 3,500 properties linked to Russian ownership. While the ban is set to be submitted to parliament for approval, it will include exemptions for dual citizens and Russians with permanent residency in Finland or other EU countries. Hakkanen emphasized the importance of preemptively securing the nation's borders and infrastructure from potential vulnerabilities. The Finnish government has also previously enacted measures to restrict asylum seekers at the border, further reflecting the strained relationship with Russia. This legislation follows a broader European trend of tightening property laws concerning foreign nationals deemed security risks.