The country maintains an elevated level of terrorist threat.
Russia and China continue to be the states most actively engaged in espionage against Finland, reports the Security Police Supo in its national security review published today, March 10. According to Supo, however, Russia's resources are currently largely focused on Ukraine, and Finland is not at the center of Russian influence operations.
The Supo review indicates that Russia is particularly interested in Finland's foreign policy, changes brought about by NATO membership, Finland's border policy, as well as critical and military infrastructure.
– The Nordic countries or Finland, apart from the border situation, have not been at the center of Russian influence operations, and Finland, unlike some European countries, has not been subjected to sabotage attacks, the Supo review notes.
The Security Police emphasizes that Russia is not a superior player acting everywhere. For example, according to Supo, in the widely publicized cases of cable damage in the Baltic Sea, there was no evidence of state influence from Russia.
Interest in Shadow Fleet Activities
Instead, according to Supo, Russia seeks to ensure the security of its so-called shadow fleet by escorting its vessels with military ships and placing guards on board. With the shadow fleet, Russia attempts to circumvent the sanctions imposed on it.
China's espionage against Finland is also ongoing and long-term. According to Supo, China conducts cyber espionage and intelligence gathering in Finland involving agents, aiming to strengthen its geopolitical positions in the world.
The review notes that the level of terrorist threat in Finland remains unchanged – at level three on a five-point scale, which means 'elevated.' Supo did not specify in its review which groups pose the most likely threat of attack.
Supo Chief Juha Martelius presented the national security review on Tuesday at a public hearing of the parliamentary intelligence oversight committee. The review also highlighted other risks to national security, such as residential segregation, risks associated with homeschooling, and issues of information security in cloud services. Supo also reported that individuals with connections to criminal groups are attempting to enter the police.
Previously, the Security Police criticized media speculation about Russia, which suggested that Russia is behind various events. According to Supo, such discussions can reinforce the perception of Russia's omnipotence, which is not true.
