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Finland moves to block Russians' real estate deals

The Finnish Ministry of Defence is preparing draft legislation that could place a total ban on Russian citizens buying property in Finland.

 A  gavel rests on a green-covered book titled Finnish Law.
Last week, Defence Minister Antti Häkkänen (NCP) turned down six permits regarding real estate transactions by purchasers from outside the EU and EEA. Image: Arja Lento / Yle
  • STT
  • Yle News

Legislation could be used to prevent Russians from buying property in Finland, according to a recent statement by the Chancellor of Justice.

The Chancellor of Justice noted that the government's draft proposal on the matter — effectively a blanket ban — was largely sound.

The government is planning to propose a ban on real estate transactions for individuals from countries engaged in aggressive warfare.

A country would be subject to this ban if the EU has determined that it has infringed another state's sovereignty.

An Yle investigation recently found that Russian citizens living in Finland have been purchasing houses and vacation cottages at bargain prices.

Last week, news emerged that Defence Minister Antti Häkkänen (NCP) turned down six permits regarding real estate transactions by purchasers from outside the EU and European Economic Area (EEA).

All of these properties are located in eastern areas of Finland.