Russia’s Economic Forum: A Platform for Diverse Voices
Russia’s St Petersburg Economic Forum, often seen as the country’s counterpart to the Davos economic summit, began on Wednesday. This event comes at a critical time, as Vladimir Putin faces warnings that he can no longer sustain the current pace of his war with Ukraine. The forum has drawn an eclectic mix of attendees, including several high-profile Americans who are drawn to Moscow’s claims of “anti-wokery” and support for “traditional values.”
Moscow is keen to bolster its economic position, especially after top finance officials and the central bank reportedly urged the Kremlin to control rising defense spending. With both Russia and Ukraine increasing their aerial attacks on vital infrastructure, the need for economic stability is more pressing than ever.
Notable American Attendees
Rodney Mims Cook Jr
Rodney Mims Cook Jr, chairman of the US Commission of Fine Arts, is overseeing President Donald Trump’s controversial White House ballroom extension. He is leading the official US delegation to the forum, making him the first US official to attend since 2017/18. According to the Kremlin, this is also the first time since Russia sent tens of thousands of troops into Ukraine in 2022.
Cook will speak at a session on US-Russian cultural dialogue. Before the forum, he told Russia’s TASS state news agency that he was representing the US as a minister of culture and as a Christian, not as a politician. He mentioned that he has helped restore various churches in Russia in the past and gifted a religious icon to a male monastery in St Petersburg.
Robert Agee, head of the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham), noted that Cook’s attendance is a positive signal that Trump “truly wants to improve relations with Russia.” However, he clarified that it doesn’t represent an official US delegation.
Candace Owens
Candace Owens, a right-wing social media influencer, was a former MAGA loyalist until a falling out with the Trump movement. She is known for spreading unfounded conspiracy theories, including allegations about Israel’s role in the September assassination of her friend, Charlie Kirk.
Owens will speak at a session on “balancing parenthood in a large family with a successful career.” Ahead of her trip, she expressed her desire to visit St Petersburg as a Christian to see some of the cathedrals and churches.
Steven Seagal
Steven Seagal, a former Hollywood action hero and martial arts expert, has long admired Putin, who granted him a Russian passport in 2016. Seagal serves as a special representative of Russia’s Foreign Ministry for humanitarian ties with the United States and Japan.
He once described Putin as “one of the great living world leaders” and expressed skepticism over the alleged Russian interference in the 2016 US elections. Seagal was banned from entering Ukraine for five years due to “socially dangerous actions” and is listed as a participant in a panel on culture.
Andrew and Tristan Tate
Influencer Andrew Tate posted a video of himself and his brother Tristan receiving a musical Russian welcome at the airport in Moscow on the eve of the forum. The brothers have yet to confirm their attendance at the forum itself.
Andrew Tate, a self-described misogynist, has gained millions of online fans through his lavish lifestyle. Both brothers are former kickboxers with dual U.S. and British citizenship. They face criminal investigations in Romania for charges including human trafficking, but they deny all wrongdoing.
