In a recent development reported by Yle, former Finnish ambassador to Moscow, Mikko Hautala, faces serious accusations regarding his attempts to influence the work of Erkka Mikkonen, a journalist who worked in Russia from 2012 to 2017. Mikkonen has recounted his experiences in his new book "Homona Putinin Venäjällä" (Gay in Putin's Russia), which was published on the same day. According to Mikkonen, Hautala instructed him that Finnish media should not complicate bilateral relations between Finland and Russia and should avoid reporting that could create discord.

Hautala has denied these allegations vehemently, stating in an interview with Yle that he never made such statements. This controversy highlights the precarious position journalists can face while reporting in countries with sensitive diplomatic relations, especially regarding tensions between Finland and Russia. The case has also drawn attention to the influence that foreign ambassadors may have over media narratives, raising questions about press freedom and the integrity of journalistic work in such contexts.

Adding to the discussion, Kerstin Kronvall, who worked as Yle's correspondent in Moscow from 2015 to 2017, corroborated Mikkonen's claims by sharing her own experiences of feeling pressured by Hautala during her time covering the region. This situation calls for a closer examination of the dynamics between diplomatic representatives and the media, particularly in environments where the political climate can significantly impact journalistic independence.