Former Finnish prime minister faced Soviet threats before death, scholar claims

Political scientist Alpo Rusi has provided further details on Soviet intelligence operations targeting former Finnish Prime Minister Keijo Liinamaa during the late 1970s and early 1980s.

Writing in a guest column for Iltalehti, Rusi detailed how the KGB engaged in covert influence campaigns aimed at steering Finland's political trajectory as President Urho Kekkonen's era neared its conclusion. Liinamaa, who served as head of government in 1975 and later as national conciliator, reportedly disclosed receiving threats and intimidation shortly before his sudden death in 1980. Rusi emphasized that Moscow sought to control presidential succession and preserve its leverage over Helsinki's strategic decisions during a critical period of the Cold War.

Sources: Iltalehti