The St. Petersburg International Economic Forum was once attended by presidents, prime ministers, Fortune 500 CEOs, and global investors.

It was marketed as "russia's Davos."

Today, it has become a gathering place for fringe politicians, Kremlin propagandists, conspiracy theorists, and useful idiots.

Just look at some of the "prominent" Western attendees:

• Gerhard Schröder (Germany) — former German chancellor and one of Putin's most valuable assets in Europe.

• Representatives of Germany's AfD.

• Rodney Mims Cook Jr. (United States) — the highest-ranking Trump’s official willing to attend.

• Candace Owens (United States) — one of the most prominent amplifiers of Kremlin narratives in the West.

• Steven Seagal (russia) — Putin's favorite propagandist.

• Andrew and Tristan Tate — propagandists, conspiracy theorist, and women trafficker.

The contrast is striking.

Before the full-scale invasion, Moscow could attract the world's business and political elite.

Today, it attracts people seeking attention, relevance, access, or favor from the Kremlin.

That may be the clearest measure of russia's international isolation.

The Kremlin wants the world to believe that russia remains a respected global power.

The guest list tells a different story.