Overview

• Both women spoke on panels at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, marking their first official participation.
• Tikhonova, a tech executive, discussed the defense sector's role in Russia's technological sovereignty.
• Vorontsova, a genetics researcher, led a panel on biodiversity innovation.
• Their appearances come as Putin focuses on his legacy and the rising influence of his family.
• The forum showcased Russia's pivot from Western partnerships to alliances with countries in South America, Africa, India, and China.