Steven Seagal, Candace Owens and Trump’s ballroom commissioner appear at Russia’s top economic forum

Steven Seagal, Candace Owens and Trump’s Ballroom Commissioner Make Unusual Appearance at Russia’s Prestigious Economic Forum

Steven Seagal Candace Owens and Trump – Russia’s St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) has long been a hub for global leaders and business figures, yet this year’s edition has taken an unexpected turn with the inclusion of American personalities like conservative commentator Candace Owens, actor Steven Seagal, and Rodney Cook, head of the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts. The event, held in the shadow of recent tensions, saw a notable absence of Ukrainian delegates, though their influence lingered as the forum opened amid reports of drone strikes targeting St. Petersburg—the hometown of Russian President Vladimir Putin—just hours prior.

Often referred to as Putin’s counterpart to the World Economic Forum in Davos, SPIEF has seen its Western participation steadily decrease since Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014 and its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. This year, however, the event attracted a mix of American figures, signaling a shift in diplomatic focus. Saudi Arabia, the nation’s featured guest, will host a high-profile session with Putin on Friday, underscoring its growing economic ties with Moscow. Meanwhile, China’s presence at the forum, led by Vice President Han Zheng, highlights the country’s expanding role in Russian business and political circles.

A New Chapter in American-Russian Engagement

Rodney Cook, a U.S. government official appointed by former President Donald Trump, became the first American representative to attend SPIEF since 2017. His attendance was hailed by the Kremlin as a milestone, emphasizing his role as the leader of the first official U.S. delegation in years. Cook, however, clarified that his participation was approved by Trump and the State Department, even as some officials cast doubt on the scale of American involvement.

“I’ve been treated with great warmth here. Many in this room are personal friends over decades. I’m here to listen and to learn,” Cook said during a session, showing a slide of his “dacha” in Atlanta—a Russian-style cabin that reflects his admiration for the country’s architectural traditions.

Cook’s presence at the forum was paired with a panel discussion titled “Russia–US: A Cultural Dialogue,” where he shared the stage with Seagal and Russian Minister of Culture Olga Lyubimova. The session allowed for a blend of political and cultural exchange, with Cook showcasing his connection to Russian design through his own residence, which he described as an homage to traditional Russian wooden architecture.

The Commission’s Mission: Reviving the White House Ballroom

Cook’s commission, tasked with overseeing the reconstruction of the White House ballroom wing, has drawn attention for its unique mandate. Alongside this, the group is responsible for approving the design of Trump’s “triumphal arch”—a 250-foot monument inspired by Paris’ Arc de Triomphe. During the forum, Cook unveiled images of these projects, emphasizing their symbolic and aesthetic significance. His background in restoring historical Russian sites, such as Arkhangelskoye Palace and the New Jerusalem Monastery, further cements his ties to the country’s cultural heritage.

Cook’s collaboration with Russian architect Anton Glikin has been a key focus of his work. Known for his mentorship of Glikin, Cook described the architect as his “surrogate son,” highlighting their shared vision for blending Western and Russian influences. Glikin, in turn, praised Cook’s lifelong passion for Russian culture, noting that his enthusiasm for the Orthodox Church and classical traditions remains steadfast.

Visa Policy and Cultural Alignment

The shared values visa, introduced by Putin in August 2024, has become a central theme in discussions about American-Russian relations. This initiative targets migrants who embrace Russia’s traditional stance against progressive social movements, offering them the opportunity to settle in the country. During the forum, Glikin revealed that he is overseeing the design of a settlement in Nizhny Novgorod for 450 Western immigrants under this policy. The project aims to create a community for those who align with Russia’s cultural and political ideals, a move that has been celebrated as fostering deeper ties between the two nations.

“Rodney has always been a Russophile. He loves the Orthodox Church and fundamental classical culture. At the same time, he’s an Anglophile, but I would say that Russian culture still ranks first in his hierarchy,” Glikin told Russian state media TASS during an interview.

Glikin also recounted his experience with Cook during a recent visit to St. Petersburg, where he played Russian folk songs on the piano for the American delegation. The interaction underscored the personal and professional bonds between the two men, despite the geopolitical rifts that have defined their relationship in recent years.

Tensions and Opportunities

While the forum’s atmosphere was one of cooperation, the topic of Russia’s war in Ukraine was notably absent from the panel’s discourse. Robert Agee, president and CEO of the American Chamber of Commerce in Russia, acknowledged the deepening “misunderstanding” and “mistrust” between the two countries but remained optimistic about potential business opportunities. “The level of tension is higher than ever, but there are still significant prospects for collaboration,” Agee stated during a session, emphasizing the resilience of economic ties despite political challenges.

Cook’s efforts to bridge cultural divides have sparked debate. While his work on Russian historical sites and advocacy for traditional values align with Moscow’s priorities, critics argue that his presence at SPIEF represents a broader shift in U.S. policy toward Russia. The White House’s plans for the ballroom and the triumphal arch are seen as both symbolic and practical gestures, reflecting a desire to reframe the narrative of American-Russian relations.

Legacy and Future Implications

Cook’s attendance at SPIEF marks a pivotal moment in his career, bridging his work as a U.S. official with his deep appreciation for Russian culture. The event not only highlighted his personal connections but also underscored the evolving landscape of international diplomacy. As the forum progresses, it remains to be seen whether these cultural exchanges will pave the way for renewed economic cooperation or further entrench the divide between the West and Russia.

The presence of figures like Seagal and Owens, while seemingly unconventional, adds a unique dimension to the discussions. Their participation, though less formal, reflects the diverse perspectives that continue to shape American engagement with Russia, even as traditional allies and partners grow more distant. The SPIEF’s eclectic mix of attendees signals a complex interplay of ideology, personal ties, and strategic interests, setting the stage for a new era of cross-cultural dialogue in global politics.