[Eugenia Gabrielov]

This is a pretty intense issue. My opinion is close to Neha's, but I have a slight recommendation on how you could handle it a different way.

I don't think it's appropriate to burn a flag, but before being so quick to slam him into a category, you may try speaking to him about this. I realize it means a lot to you, and I respect it, but the best way to resolve this conflict is through education.

Explain to him that you respect he has a personal opinion, but ask him to explain it. I have travelled abroad many times, and I know that in many foreign countries the opinion of America is not as good as people in this country think it is. However, he may have a particular reason for behaving this way, and perhaps if this reason is fixable by another action you could recommend that. As for your lady friend, try to explain how much this means to you.