Soviet KGB targeted former Finnish prime minister Keijo Liinamaa, analyst reveals

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 outlined how the KGB conducted covert influence operations to alter Finland's political landscape as President Urho Kekkonen's long tenure neared its end. Liinamaa, who served as prime minister in 1975 and later as national conciliator, reportedly received intimidation and threats prior to his sudden death in 1980.

According to Rusi, Moscow sought to direct political succession and secure its influence over Helsinki's strategic decisions during this delicate Cold War era. The disclosures underscore the scale of foreign interference targeting key Finnish political figures at the time.

Sources: Iltalehti