Foreign Ministry's press releases

Those travelling to northwest Russia are advised to remain alert because of the forest fire situation. However, according to the Russian authorities the situation has become easier, although the air quality is still keeping poor owing to the heavy smoke that continues to billow from extinguished fires. The smoke is now affecting considerably even St. Petersburg.

The extent and speed of the return of Lebanese have come as a surprise to all actors, and constitute a great challenge for aid organisations as they strive to meet changing demands, says Finland’s Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Paula Lehtomäki after visiting Lebanon.

Forest fires and brush fires are still raging in areas of the Russian Federation. Finns moving about in Northwest Russia are urged to exercise caution. The situation regarding the fires is the worst in Vyborg and Kingisepp districts, where a state of emergency is in force. In addition, the Russian authorities have forbidden moving about in forested areas in Leningrad Region and in the Karelian Republic.