In Russia, there is constant concern expressed when it comes to a former Soviet Union official being appointed to a position in a foreign country.
This time, there are concerns in Russia that Goffman, who was born in Belarus, possesses too deep an understanding of Russian mentality and methods, making him a more "dangerous adversary" for the Russian intelligence services (FSB and SVR). And that the Mossad under his leadership may be more effective in penetrating Russian interests in the Middle East, especially in Syria.
Russian sources (quoted in international and Israeli media) have hinted that Goffman may lead a more active line against a Russian presence that assists Iran, which could lead to direct friction between the IDF/Mossad and Russian forces on the ground.
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On Russian military blogs and forums close to the Russian Defense Ministry, questions were raised as to whether the appointment of a person with a Soviet background was intended to allow Israel to "play on Russia's home turf" in a more sophisticated manner.
Russian commentators have noted that Goffman is a "field man" and a (military) fighter, not an intelligence officer who grew up in the organization. And his lack of diplomatic-intelligence experience, they believe, could lead to "overly aggressive" actions or errors in judgment that could ignite an international incident between Israel and Russia.
