Candace Owens, a conservative podcaster, is set to speak at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, joining a panel with Russian officials sanctioned for their roles in supporting the war against Ukraine. Owens has recently praised Russia for its 'Christian heritage' and 'family-friendly' values, raising alarms about her alignment with Kremlin interests. The event, known for promoting Russian state narratives, includes figures like Alexander Zharov, appointed by President Vladimir Putin, and Anna Kuznetsova, both under U.S. and EU sanctions. Owens has presented her trip to Russia as a family outing, despite evidence of her participation in media interviews with sanctioned outlets. Critics argue that her actions contribute to Russia's soft power efforts, linking her to a broader trend among far-right figures who view Russia as an ally against liberalism. Owens' messaging appears to resonate with Kremlin narratives, further complicating her political standing within conservative circles.