Finnish scholar details Soviet threats against former prime minister Keijo Liinamaa

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Posted Sep 21, 2026, 09:00 PM UTC · In the digest of 2026-09-21-2100
Finnish scholar details Soviet threats against former prime minister Keijo Liinamaa
Photo: Iltalehti

Political science scholar Alpo Rusi reveals historical Soviet intelligence threats against former Finnish Prime Minister Keijo Liinamaa during the late Cold War era.

Political science scholar Alpo Rusi has outlined historical Soviet intelligence operations targeting Finnish political figures during the late 1970s and early 1980s. In a column for Iltalehti, Rusi highlighted details regarding threats made against Keijo Liinamaa, a former Finnish prime minister and national conciliator, prior to his death in 1980.

According to the account, Soviet intelligence sought to manipulate Finland's political succession as the presidency of Urho Kekkonen drew to a close. Liinamaa had reportedly disclosed to a diplomat that he faced direct pressure from Soviet operatives aiming to influence domestic political leadership during a key Cold War transition.

Sources: Iltalehti

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