Finland to tighten restrictions on Russian athletes after Moscow's expected return to world ice hockey

Finland plans to impose stricter entry rules for Russian athletes, as announced by Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen. This decision follows a ruling allowing Russia's return to international ice hockey, which has sparked backlash from several countries. Valtonen emphasized the need for Russia to cease its aggression in Ukraine. The proposed changes aim to prevent Russian athletes from participating in sports events, countering their potential use of sports for reputation enhancement. Finland, alongside other EU nations, previously halted tourist visas for Russians after the Ukraine invasion, but exceptions for sports remain. Discussions on broader EU sanctions are ongoing.