President Alexander Stubb of Finland received wide support from European leaders for the country’s new border security act. The act allows for the suspension of asylum applications at designated areas and the immediate rejection of migrants based on a summary assessment of their need for protection.
While Russian hybrid warfare was a major topic, no new strategies were agreed upon. However, Finland’s response to instrumentalised immigration was praised, with Baltic leaders showing interest in adopting similar measures.
Stubb emphasized the need for a uniform European strategy to combat Russian influence operations to avoid instability. The president also discussed the potential re-opening of border-crossing points, emphasizing the importance of security.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen highlighted the situation with Yemeni migrants brought to Finland by Russia. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen also emphasized the need to support Ukraine and protect European borders.
The overall focus was on addressing Russian aggression and supporting Ukraine to prevent further escalation of the conflict.