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El Paso Connections at Russia's Economic Forum: A Look at American Attendees

KVIA•Thursday, June 4, 2026 at 5:10 PM•CNN Newsource

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AI Summary

The St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) is currently underway, featuring a diverse group of American participants, including Candace Owens, Steven Seagal, and Rodney Mims Cook, Jr. This year's forum occurs amid ongoing tensions due to drone strikes in St. Petersburg and the backdrop of the Ukraine conflict. Cook is the first US official to attend since 2017, claiming he received permission from Trump and the State Department. The forum highlights Russia's shift towards Eastern business partnerships, with Saudi Arabia as the guest of honor. Discussions at the event have largely avoided the topic of the Ukraine war, focusing instead on cultural exchanges and business opportunities. The presence of these American figures raises questions about their roles and the implications of their participation in a country facing international isolation.

Key Details: • SPIEF is ongoing with significant American participation, including first-time attendees. • Rodney Mims Cook, Jr. is the first US official at the forum since 2017. • Saudi Arabia is the guest of honor, indicating Russia's pivot towards Eastern alliances. • The forum has seen a decline in Western attendance since the annexation of Crimea in 2014. • A hockey match between US and Russian players is planned for July 1, 2026.

russia us-relations economic-forum candace-owens steven-seagal

People & Organizations

Vladimir PutinMoscowAtlantaCandace OwensSt. PetersburgRodney Mims Cook, Jr.Steven SeagalOlga LyubimovaRobert AgeeNizhny NovgorodUS Commission of Fine ArtsAmerican Chamber of Commerce in Russia

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