Russia and Finland share a long and complex history, deeply intertwined by geography and marked by periods of cooperation, conflict, and tension. Their relationship is shaped by a substantial border (over 1,300 kilometers), historical grievances, and differing geopolitical orientations.
Finland was part of the Swedish kingdom for centuries before being annexed by the Russian Empire in 1809. As the Grand Duchy of Finland, it enjoyed significant autonomy within the Russian Empire, developing its own institutions and cultural identity. This period saw the rise of Finnish nationalism and the flourishing of Finnish language and arts. However, towards the end of the 19th century, Russia implemented a policy of Russification, aiming to integrate Finland more closely into the empire. This fueled Finnish resistance and aspirations for independence.
Following the Russian Revolution of 1917, Finland declared its independence, a move initially recognized by the Bolshevik government. However, the Finnish Civil War (1918), pitting the “Whites” against the “Reds,” complicated the situation. The “Whites,” supported by Germany, prevailed. This victory cemented Finland’s independence but also sowed the seeds of mistrust with Soviet Russia.
The Winter War (1939-1940) was a defining moment in the relationship. The Soviet Union, seeking territorial concessions and security guarantees, invaded Finland. Despite fierce Finnish resistance, the Soviets ultimately prevailed, forcing Finland to cede territory. This war cemented Finland’s image as a courageous defender of its independence and shaped its strategic thinking for decades to come.
During World War II, Finland fought alongside Nazi Germany against the Soviet Union in the Continuation War (1941-1944) to regain lost territories. However, with the tide of the war turning against Germany, Finland was forced to negotiate an armistice with the Soviet Union. As a result, Finland ceded more territory and agreed to lease the Porkkala peninsula to the Soviets.
The post-war era saw Finland adopt a policy of neutrality, often referred to as “Finlandization.” This meant maintaining good relations with the Soviet Union while preserving its democratic institutions and Western-oriented economy. Finland refrained from joining NATO and carefully balanced its foreign policy to avoid provoking its powerful neighbor.
The collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 fundamentally altered the geopolitical landscape. Finland joined the European Union in 1995, further integrating itself into the Western world. However, it maintained a cautious approach to Russia, focusing on practical cooperation in areas such as trade, environment, and border management.
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022 dramatically changed Finland’s security calculus. The long-standing public support for neutrality shifted decisively towards NATO membership. In May 2022, Finland, along with Sweden, applied to join the alliance. Finland officially became a member of NATO in April 2023, marking a historic shift in its foreign policy and a significant development in the relationship with Russia. This decision, driven by concerns about Russian aggression and a desire for collective security, has been met with strong condemnation from Moscow, further straining relations between the two countries.
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