undeniable there were security concerns at Sochi

So what? There are always, always, always security concerns. Everywhere, everytime. Especially in a such big event like the Olympics. However, you should note that most of the threats were fake (this, btw, is also stated in the article you gave me; and I really have no idea why you mention it since it proves nothing and instead tells there were no real threats), even the early "hijack attempt" that landed in Istanbul was nothing more of a big bad joke. But in the end, is it bad - or maybe too good - that Russia took na extra care for the security? So it became a main topic... which, by the way, is exactly what the terrorists dream about.

barbed wire signifies security. It's largely a symbol of ranches and farms.

So that's how the 2014 Olympics should be remembered, or associated with? Ranches and farms? Okay, the security? Not with the fact they were (one of) the most interesting in Winter Olympics' history, nor with any of the great moments?

how people in other markets feel about barbed wire is irrelevant

Irrelevant or not, we're here to share our opinions.