Two in three Finns oppose normalising relations between Finland and Russia, according to a new survey published by Finnish newspaper Ilta-Sanomat. The findings suggest that most people in Finland are against restoring the diplomatic, economic and personal ties that existed between the two countries before relations deteriorated.
The survey asked respondents whether Finland and Russia should return to their previous relationship at some point in the future. This would involve restoring diplomatic contacts, economic cooperation and people-to-people relations to their earlier state.
Around one in four respondents supported beginning the process of normalising relations, while approximately two-thirds were against the idea. The results indicate that opposition remains widespread among the Finnish public.
The survey also found no significant differences between age groups. A majority of respondents in every age category opposed starting the normalisation process, suggesting that resistance to improving relations with Moscow is not limited to a particular generation.
Taloustutkimus conducted the survey through an online panel at the end of October. More than 1,100 people took part, with a margin of error of approximately three percentage points in either direction.
The findings come as Finland continues to maintain a firm position towards Russia following the deterioration of relations between the neighbouring countries. Finnish authorities have repeatedly emphasised that diplomatic contacts or discussions involving European leaders should not automatically be interpreted as a move towards restoring relations with Moscow.
Finland’s leadership has also clarified that a phone conversation involving President Alexander Stubb and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store does not signal the beginning of a process to normalise relations with Russia.
Relations between Finland and Russia have been particularly strained since Finland closed its eastern border crossings in late 2023. The Finnish government accused Russia of deliberately directing migrants towards the border, describing the situation as a form of instrumentalised migration. Moscow’s alleged role in the movement of migrants became a major security concern for Finnish authorities.
The eastern border has remained closed since then, reflecting the continuing tensions and Finland’s security concerns.
The latest survey provides an indication of how the Finnish public views the possibility of restoring relations with Russia. Although a minority supports beginning that process, the findings show that most respondents are not in favour of returning to the relationship that existed before the deterioration in ties.
