Politics

Finland restricts airspace and maritime areas near Kotka and Hamina due to drone concerns

File photo by неизвестен from Wikimedia Commons, Public domain

The Finnish Defence Forces have imposed new restrictions on airspace and maritime movement in the eastern Gulf of Finland, specifically off the coast of Kotka and in Hamina. The measures took effect this morning, with the airspace closure beginning at 8:00 AM and the maritime restriction shortly after (Helsingin Sanomat).

The restricted area extends west to Kaunissaari’s open sea and north to the Port of Hamina. The Defence Forces describe the move as a precautionary step in response to potential stray drones entering Finnish territory, linked to ongoing drone attacks by Ukraine against Russia (Yle).

According to the Defence Command’s media service, the closures are necessary to ensure the safe interception of any drones that may deviate into Finnish airspace or waters. Similar restrictions were last implemented on 6 July, also in connection with Ukraine’s drone operations near the Finnish border (Yle).

The Defence Forces have not specified how long the restrictions will remain in place.

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