Most Russians dislike George Bush

Most Russians dislike US President George Bush. This was the result of a survey of 1500 Russians carried out by the Public Opinion fund on June 7, 2003. 60% of respondents said they disliked Mr Bush as a politician and only 17% held the opposite view.

Despite the warmth and friendliness that Mr Bush displayed at his meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin during the celebrations of Saint Petersburg's 300th anniversary every second Russian (48%) said they were sure that Mr Bush dislikes Russia. This figure was highest among those respondents with a higher education (57%). Only 21% of respondents said they believe Mr Bush likes Russia. This opinion was most widespread in the North-West Federal District, which includes Saint Petersburg.