Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen (NCP) said Finland is collaborating with other EU countries to more effectively tackle hybrid influence attempts by foreign states.
Speaking to Yle on Saturday, Valtonen said Finland is working closely with other EU states to better address hybrid influence attempts by foreign states within the framework of international rules.
She praised Finnish authorities for their actions during the seizure and investigation of the Eagle S vessel around Christmas. Valtonen also highlighted the importance of upholding the rule of law in addressing hybrid threats, noting that EU legal experts are currently discussing how to tackle issues such as Russia's shadow fleet. This is made up of vessels that are typically over 15 years old, poorly insured and often involved in deceptive maritime practices and sanctions evasion.
"We are in a situation where Russia is waging an aggressive war in violation of international law in Europe. It must be addressed," she told the Ykkösaamu chat show.
Valtonen also said it was time to think outside the box now that the security environment had changed.
"International law has so far been quite clear about how to respond to so-called instrumentalised migration. In practice, this has effectively limited the ability to take adequate action," she explained.
The foreign minister said other countries are now also seeking to take more decisive action through legally grounded interpretations.
"After all, on the opposing side is a country that does not respect the law at all and seems to use immigration as a means of attack," she said.