Moscow welcomed Obama, who on the evening of Tuesday (7) concluded a Russian-American summit of two days as if he were just another dignitary of way, without demonstrations as occurred in other European cities.

No crowds clamoring for a glimpse of him. The headlines offer only a brief note or frivolous activities. The programming of the TV was not interrupted. Even many students and trainees from the school of business administration turned to the West, in which Obama made the speech of graduation on Tuesday, seemed only respectful, but hardly excited.

The Russians when asked by a newspaper in Moscow hoped that the visit by Obama, 80% of readers responded the same: traffic congestion.

Some advisers to Obama said they noticed the discreet reception there, especially in comparison to the large presence of people in some of his trips abroad. Even Michelle Obama, who generally enjoys the intense local media coverage when she travels felt this effect.

Many there noted that Russia went through a excited phase with President Bill Clinton was there in the 90s, when Russia extended a hand to the Americans. Clinton made a speech that was broadcast nationally.

In comparison, the Obama speech on Tuesday, which was named his third biggest foreign policy speech, was not shown live by any major Russian channel to disappointment the White House.

Part of the reception Obama may be considered more as a Bush legacy, who insisted on the creation of an anti-missile shield in recent years.

Via: NYT.