Owens, Cook Join 20,000-Guest Russia Forum as Putin Seeks U.S. Propaganda Win
Updated
Updated · NBC News · Jun 6
Owens, Cook Join 20,000-Guest Russia Forum as Putin Seeks U.S. Propaganda Win
3 articles · Updated · NBC News · Jun 6
Summary
Candace Owens and Rodney Mims Cook Jr. appeared at Russia’s St. Petersburg forum as Moscow used a claimed 20,000 attendees from 100-plus countries to project strength despite wartime strain.
The event opened under black smoke from a Ukrainian strike near St. Petersburg, underscoring setbacks that have hit oil infrastructure, disrupted logistics and fueled domestic frustration over the war.
Owens praised Moscow in RT appearances and social posts, while Cook spoke at culture-themed panels; Russian officials cast his presence as the first U.S. official participation in nearly a decade.
Washington signaled confusion over that claim — Marco Rubio said he was unaware of any U.S. delegation — even as Russian media portrayed the visits as evidence of a thaw.
Analysts said the Americans’ presence is unlikely to shift U.S. opinion but gives Putin a modest domestic propaganda victory by suggesting Russia is not isolated.