U.S. President Donald Trump on June 5 signaled support for direct talks between Russia and Ukraine to end the full-scale war, saying he believes it is close to being settled. Speaking to reporters, Trump was asked whether he wanted Moscow and Kyiv to continue peace talks before the United States became more directly involved in negotiations.

Once a gathering place for Western leaders and investors, Russia’s St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) features a guest list that includes an eclectic mix of American attendees ranging from conservative podcaster Candace Owens,