Russian Expatriates in Middle East Show Divided Support in Presidential Election
In a compelling report by Veronica Neifakh for The Media Line, the recent Russian presidential elections have highlighted the complex and divided loyalties among Russian expatriates in the Middle East, particularly in Israel and the United Arab Emirates. Amid the backdrop of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, a notable number of Russians, driven from their homeland, have voiced their opposition or support for President Vladimir Putin through their votes in these regions.
In Israel, the elections were marked by long queues and heated debates, with many expressing fervent opposition to Putin. Vote Abroad volunteer Esti, who moved to Israel following the invasion of Ukraine, recounted scenes of passion and protest at the polling stations, where supporters of Putin clashed verbally with those advocating for change and freedom in Russia. Despite this, a significant portion of the elderly Russian community in Israel remained loyal to Putin, showcasing the diverse political sentiments within the diaspora.
The Vote Abroad survey revealed that 45% of voters in Israel backed Vladislav Davankov, seen as the anti-war candidate, while 17% supported Putin. The sentiment was somewhat different in Dubai, where voter Angelina praised Putin for Russia’s achievements under his leadership, reflecting the opposition’s less visible presence in the UAE.
Mikhail Zeldin-Gipsman, a specialist in crowd technologies, provided insight into the electoral dynamics among Russians in the Middle East, attributing the support for alternative candidates in Israel to a recent influx of migrants and a shift in political attitudes following Russia’s actions in Ukraine and its stance toward Israel.
This article paints a vivid picture of the Russian electoral process abroad, capturing the varied perspectives of the Russian diaspora in the Middle East. For a deeper understanding of these dynamics, readers are encouraged to explore the full article on The Media Line’s website.
