Countries intensify border security measures in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine

In response to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, several neighboring countries have intensified their borders’ security measures. Finland is constructing hundreds of kilometers of barbed wire fencing, while Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania are establishing what is referred to as the “Baltic Defense Line.” Poland is set to secure approximately 700 kilometers of its border in a plan dubbed the “Eastern Shield.”

At the Storskog border crossing in East Finnmark, Norway is also taking steps to enhance border control with Russia. Tone Vangen, the preparedness director at the Police Directorate, remarked that various measures are being implemented to modernize and strengthen Norway’s border surveillance due to the challenging security situation.

In 2023, over 1,000 migrants crossed into Finland from Russia, prompting authorities to close the border and introduce new regulations aimed at preventing unauthorized entries. This situation arose after Finland joined NATO, leading to accusations that Russia was influencing migration patterns.

Finland has begun building a four-meter-high barbed wire fence along part of its southern border with Russia. The Finnish Border Guard highlighted that a physical barrier is essential in light of extensive illegal border crossings.

As part of their response, Norway’s Police Directorate is planning enhanced security measures at the Storskog crossing, driven by experiences of increased migration attempts from Russia. Ongoing adaptations include trials with drones and other technologies for border surveillance.

The Norwegian military has significantly increased its presence in Northern Norway, particularly the Jeger battalion, which has been reinforced since 2016. Recent developments in defense plans include measures to slow down potential invasions, such as demolishing bridges and placing minefields, laying the groundwork for a more fortified response to emerging threats in the region.