Conservative commentator Candace Owens has become the center of a dispute within right-wing political circles after appearing at the St.Petersburg International Economic Forum in Russia.Owens attended a panel discussion alongside Russian officials, including Alexander Zharov, a Kremlin-appointed executive who is under U.S.sanctions, and Anna Kuznetsova, a Russian lawmaker sanctioned by both the United States and the European Union.Her appearance prompted strong criticism from several prominent conservative personalities.

Radio host Mark Levin publicly condemned Owens, while activist Laura Loomer called for an investigation into whether her activities should be examined under the Foreign Agents Registration Act.Loomer also made personal criticisms of Owens and her family.

Additional criticism came from the conservative media personalities behind Chicks on the Right, who argued that Owens' participation benefited Russian interests and questioned the circumstances surrounding her trip.

The controversy expanded beyond Owens herself when Buckley Carlson, brother of commentator Tucker Carlson, drew backlash after expressing support for closer relations between the United States and Russia and criticizing what he described as a broader ideological agenda promoted by Western institutions.

Owens initially described the trip as a family vacation, but reports noted that she actively participated in forum events that were promoted by Russian state media.Russian outlets highlighted her presence, and Kremlin-aligned figures amplified her appearance online.Owens rejected criticism, arguing that negative portrayals of Moscow are based on outdated narratives.According to her representatives, she has never accepted money or services from Russian interests.

Experts cited in the report argued that regardless of compensation, appearances by prominent Western conservatives at Russian-sponsored events can serve the Kremlin's broader political and cultural objectives by reinforcing narratives that portray Russia as an ally in ideological conflicts with liberal Western institutions.