Maria Zakharova rode with Kiselev on a 19th-century Russian troika at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum.

      June 5, 2026 16:32 Society The St. Petersburg International Economic Forum 2026 is not just a platform for business negotiations and signing major agreements, but also a space for cultural exchange, where each region presents its unique traditions. Beyond the "Expoforum," guests can expect a variety of entertainment, including a recreation of the Russian troika from the 19th century.

      As reported by "KP-Petersburg," two horse-drawn carriages are involved in the forum, including an original carriage reminiscent of the times of Pushkin and Lermontov. Maria Zakharova, the official representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry, personally rode in the troika along with the president of the All-Russian Federation of the Russian Troika, renowned TV host and journalist Dmitry Kiselev.

      "Oh my! — exclaimed Maria Zakharova when she approached the snow-white horses and petted each one. — Well done, what a good one! Murka, right? It's just impossible, what beauty!"

      After the ride, Zakharova, inspired by what she saw, shared her thoughts on why now is the most suitable time for investments in the Russian economy. She noted that the country should rely more on its own strengths and resources, rather than focusing on external assessments.

      "I think it's time to believe in our own strengths. This doesn't mean that we are closing ourselves off from anyone or not letting anyone in. We always have some internal urge to look at someone, to compete with someone, to see if we will be appreciated or not. We need to believe in our own strengths; we have an enormous amount of resources in every sense of the word. The main resource is people, culture, history, natural resources. We already have everything. The main thing is to stop looking back and thinking about how we will appear. We will appear as we work!" — said Zakharova.

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