This article examines the state of Russian-Israeli relations. It emphasizes that historical policy regarding the Second World War has been the most important determinative factor in bilateral foreign relations between the two countries. To verify this hypothesis, the author analyses the forging of a common historical narrative, influenced by Jewish participation in military elites of the USSR, Soviet support for the establishment of Israel, and perceptions of the role of the Red Army in liberating Europe from Nazism. The article also identifies additional factors affecting the state of Russian-Israeli relations, including the participation of Russian olim in the political and cultural life of Israel and private relations between the heads of both countries.