Meghan Markle distances herself from Finnish politician after photo surfaces

A photo of Meghan Markle with Finnish Social and Health Minister Wille Rydman has made headlines in Britain, with the Duchess of Sussex distancing herself from the politician, Yle reports. Rydman posted the image on social media Monday with the caption “Dinner with Meghan,” prompting online users to highlight allegations of racist language and harassing behavior previously linked to him.

According to the Daily Mail, a spokesperson for Meghan said she did not know Rydman and was unaware of the allegations against him. The spokesperson added that it was impossible to check the backgrounds of everyone who requests a selfie at such events. The photo was taken at a World Health Organization dinner in Switzerland, where participants often ask for photos, and Meghan agrees when time permits.

The Daily Mail also referenced a 2023 Helsingin Sanomat article that revealed racist language in old messages from Rydman.