Vladimirskiy defends Kiljunen amid controversy over eastern border remarks in Finland

Rostislav Vladimirskiy, the chairperson of the Alexander Coalition, has strongly defended SDP parliament member Kimmo Kiljunen amidst a heated public debate that he considers exaggerated. Kiljunen resigned today from his position as chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee following controversial statements he made in a video released by the Alexander Coalition, in which he accused afternoon newspapers of “hybrid influence” and called for the reopening of the eastern border.

The Alexander Coalition, primarily composed of Finnish-Russian members, advocates for the reopening of the eastern border to ease personal travel. The group criticizes the Finnish government, alleging that it has mistreated Russian-speaking residents. Vladimirskiy clarified that Kiljunen appeared in the video as a private individual and not as a representative of the committee.

The meeting was intended as a casual exchange of ideas, and Vladimirskiy acknowledged that sharing the video publicly may not have been the best decision, though he noted that Kiljunen had given his approval. Kiljunen was able to review the video before its release, with the goal of demonstrating the coalition’s existence and engagement with Finnish politicians.

Vladimirskiy expressed concern over the reaction to Kiljunen’s comments, suggesting it reflects an unhealthy political atmosphere where dissenting opinions, even in parliament, provoke significant backlash. This situation echoes sentiments regarding the Russian Duma, where debate is often stifled. He believes it is unfair for Kiljunen’s extensive political career to be tarnished over these remarks.

Additionally, Vladimirskiy argued that Kiljunen’s comments have shifted perspectives among previously skeptical Finnish-Russian individuals regarding perceived threats from Russia, while criticizing the Finnish government’s double standards in regulating border crossings while maintaining trade with Russia.