President Vladimir Putin’s investment forum in St Petersburg—often dubbed “Russian Davos”—opens as Russia faces stalled economic growth and an ongoing confrontation with the West over the war in Ukraine. The fifth edition of the event takes place on Wednesday, despite recent strikes involving drones and missiles. Reuters reports that the forum begins hours after an attack on Kyiv, which Russia says is a response to a deadly attack on a dormitory in Russian-controlled Luhansk.
Multiple outlets describe the gathering as featuring a mix of political and business figures alongside high-profile online personalities. The Reuters account says a right-wing U.S. influencer, a serving U.S. official and a German retail billionaire are expected to attend, reflecting the Kremlin’s attempt to showcase investment interest and influence despite sanctions and military setbacks. The other sources likewise characterize the guest list as including internet celebrities and Trump allies, presenting the event as an effort to add “gloss” to Russia’s situation.
All accounts frame the forum as occurring amid “war and stagnation,” with Putin seeking to project confidence and attract attention at a time when Russia’s economy and battlefield outcomes remain under strain.
