Scholar details Soviet threats against former Finnish prime minister Keijo Liinamaa

Political science scholar Alpo Rusi has detailed historical Soviet influence operations targeting Finnish political leadership during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Writing in Iltalehti, Rusi highlighted the case of former Prime Minister and National Conciliator Keijo Liinamaa, who reported receiving threats linked to eastern intelligence services prior to his death in 1980.

According to Rusi, Soviet covert operations sought to shape Finland's internal political landscape and secure influence during the final years of President Urho Kekkonen's tenure. Liinamaa disclosed the pressure to a diplomat shortly before passing away, shedding light on the extent of Moscow's efforts to manipulate succession dynamics in Helsinki during a critical Cold War juncture.

Sources: Iltalehti