On April 8, 2024, it was reported that several journalists currently working for Latvia's state broadcaster Radio 4 had previously been recipients of the Russian embassy's annual journalism award known as 'Dzintara Spalva' (Amber Feather). Named journalists include Marina Kovalyova, Jelena Vlasova, Valentīna Artjomenko, and Olga Kņazeva, with award years ranging from 2007 to 2012. The report implies questions about their views on freedom of speech in Putin's Russia at the time. The event reflects concerns about Russian cultural influence via awards to local journalists in Latvia.

On April 8, 2024, it was reported that several journalists currently working for Latvia's state broadcaster Radio 4 had previously been recipients of the Russian embassy's annual journalism award known as 'Dzintara Spalva' (Amber Feather). Named journalists include Marina Kovalyova, Jelena Vlasova, Valentīna Artjomenko, and Olga Kņazeva, with award years ranging from 2007 to 2012. The report implies questions about their views on freedom of speech in Putin's Russia at the time. The event reflects concerns about Russian cultural influence via awards to local journalists in Latvia.