ISW: Putin’s economic forum now a tool to spread wartime optimism

The Kremlin is using the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) to shape both internal and external narratives as Russia’s war effort continues, according to a report published by the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) on 18 June. Russian outlet Meduza reported it obtained an internal document from the Russian Presidential Administration detailing how state and pro-Kremlin media should cover SPIEF events from 18 to 21 June.

Rather than highlighting foreign investment or international participation, the document instructs media to focus on domestic feel-good events. These include the launch of a civilian car, flag-raising ceremonies for fishing boats, and new gas connections for a village and factory in Tambov Oblast.

The Kremlin also emphasized promoting events run by organizations closely tied to the Presidential Administration, such as the Znanie (Knowledge) Society and the "Russia–Land of Opportunities" foundation, which places military veterans into public roles.

The same directive encouraged coverage of book presentations on themes like war, economics, and disinformation. A political strategist with experience working for the Presidential Administration told Meduza that the Kremlin seeks to project an “appearance that everything is moving forward.”

Internet disruptions around the "economic forum"

Opposition media reported internet outages began overnight on 17 to 18 June in and around St. Petersburg, coinciding with the start of SPIEF. While no official explanation was provided, ISW noted that Russian authorities previously shut down mobile internet in wide areas during Russia's Victory Day on 9 May. That disruption was officially for “security,” but likely aimed at suppressing coverage of Ukrainian attacks that could undermine the image of Russian military success. 

"Russian authorities may be employing similar measures during SPIEF as part of efforts to forward the Kremlin's social optimism messaging," ISW wrote.