A detailed analysis of Russian economic policy and footage of Holocaust atrocities contrasted sharply during the president’s appearance. The message was Russia’s superiority over the West.
Russian President Vladimir Putin addresses officials and business leaders gathered at the St. Petersburg Economic Forum.
Ramil Sitdikov/AP
The International Economic Forum in St. Petersburg is an indicator of the state of mind of the Russian business community and Russia’s economic interconnectedness with the world. In times of war against Ukraine, the event becomes a highly political platform that reflects Russia’s orientation towards a world away from the West.