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Source: http://www.israelhayom.com/site/newsletter_opinion.php?id=17035
The Russia-Israel Romance
(Israel Hayom) Ariel Bolstein - Israeli fruit and vegetables have become a common sight in Moscow, and even in the country's periphery. The many Russians who have visited Israel since the visa requirement was canceled have changed the way Israel is viewed by the Russian public. Almost anyone you meet in Moscow has a friend, relative, or acquaintance who recently visited the Holy Land and came back with tales of its wonders. If in certain Western circles the IDF is seen as deserving of criticism, the Russians see Israel's military strength as something to be admired. Just this week, three major events are underway in Moscow: an exhibition of giant photographs of Israeli landscapes; the Israeli Film Festival; and the IDF band's appearance at an international festival of military bands. When the Russian media mentions Israel, the consensus is largely favorable. The Russian government has such tight control over the state media that it's clear that the affection for Israel feeds off the sentiment of the "commander."