This article examines the phenomenon of the "Russian gaze," which became an unexpected global trend in early 2026. Based on analysis of media publications, social media content, and expert commentary, the nature of this phenomenon, its cultural roots, and mechanisms of dissemination are reconstructed. Particular attention is devoted to the paradoxical situation: at a time when Western countries are attempting to "cancel" Russian culture, global interest in it not only does not fade but acquires new, viral forms. Accompanying trends are also analyzed: the fashion for "Slavic chic" in clothing, the popularity of Russian music abroad, and foreigners' attempts to master the elusive specificity of Russian facial expression.