Finland deports Russian man who entered the country without permission in June and was later removed following a review by Finnish authorities. This case drew wider attention due to public claims linking the individual to the Wagner paramilitary group, although officials have not confirmed his specific unit or service record.
According to the North Karelia Border Guard, the man crossed the frontier near Kitee on 17 June. The agency said he was detected through routine border surveillance before patrol units detained him close to the line separating the two countries. Officers stated that the encounter followed standard procedures and that background checks were initiated immediately.
The individual was later identified in Finnish media reports as Jevgeni, a Russian citizen who had shared images of himself in military clothing on social media. Posts associated with him referenced fighting in eastern Ukraine and included comments criticizing Russian military leadership. Earlier coverage by Yle and Helsingin Sanomat cited sources claiming he had previously been linked to Wagner. Images and posts circulating online showed apparent references to his claimed role in the conflict.
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Border Guard officials confirmed that the man had a military background but did not specify whether he served in the Russian armed forces, Wagner, or another formation. The agency said it would not comment further on his past service history.
Media outlets reported that the man sought asylum after entering Finland, telling authorities that he feared for his safety if returned to Russia. The Border Guard did not comment on the asylum process, and no additional details were provided on the grounds for his removal.
Authorities stated that the decision to remove the man from Finland came after standard border and security assessments. The Border Guard said the handling of the case followed established procedures for individuals who enter without permission.
