In the given paper the role of online periodicals as of a historical source, which needs interpretation within the framework of scientific research, has been studied. Among factors making studies of vast information arrays of online periodicals topical the following are mentioned: increasing social exposure of the readership, massive opportunities for public opinion shaping and for reflecting tendencies in domestic and foreign policy. Comprehensive survey of French online periodicals publications as of the source for studying the preset-day relations between Russia and western countries has been done. Considering materials of online publications as an example, the main features characteristic of French online periodicals are specified, regarding representation of relations between Russia and the western community. The degree of Russian-American relations presentation is evaluated, including reflection of existing contradictions determined by inertia of the cold war. Future interaction between Russia and the western countries are viewed through the western community perception of Russia. The author pays special attention to the role of online periodicals as the means of conveying political tendencies in the global information space and as a tool for public opinion structuring. At the same time the author highlights the biased nature of the above mentioned source.