Mairbek Vatchagaev
Dr. Mairbek Vatchagaev is a noted Chechen historian and political analyst on the North Caucasus and a former senior ranking official in the Chechen government of Aslan Maskhadov. A native of Chechnya, Dr. Vatchagaev is currently a Non-Resident Senior Fellow at The Jamestown Foundation and a regular contributor to the Jamestown publication Eurasia Daily Monitor where he writes about developments in the North Caucasus. He has published 56 articles on the history of Chechnya and Sufism in the North-Caucasus; 285 articles related to political science on the North Caucasus and Russia; including five books on the history and religion in Chechnya and the North Caucasus. In 1997 he published a book on the first 100 days in office of the first ever democratically elected President of Chechnya—Aslan Maskhadov. He is also the author of the book, “Chechnya in the 19th Century Caucasian Wars.”
Contact Mairbek Vatchagaev
Articles by Mairbek Vatchagaev
The Chechens Fighting for the Islamic State in Mosul
Analysts who have followed developments in Syria and Iraq have increasingly paid attention to the presence of Chechen fighters in the area since 2013. An influx of large numbers of
Chechen Diaspora Suffers as West Seeks Common Ground With Moscow on Fighting Terrorism
Against the backdrop of Western sanctions against Russia, European countries are increasingly trying to defend their cooperation with Moscow by saying it is vital for their efforts to combat international
Chechnya Hosts International Islamic Conference
It has become common practice for the authorities to hold large international Islamic conferences in Chechnya. The latest such conference took place on August 25–27, 2016, in Grozny. Over 100
Kabardino-Balkarian Jamaat Suffers Serious Losses in Fight With Government Forces
Starting in 2014, the jamaats of the armed Islamist underground movement in the North Caucasus began, one by one, to pledge allegiance to the so-called Islamic State (IS). Kabardino-Balkarian insurgents
Random Deaths Increasingly Frequent, as Innocent Civilians Mistaken for Rebels in Dagestan
At 10:30 PM, on August 5, in the Dagestani village of Karamakhi, police on patrol came under attack by unidentified individuals armed with grenade launchers. Three police officers and a
Dagestani Authorities Create ‘Control and Prophylactic Lists’ for Suspected Salafists
Mass arrests of parishioners of mosques associated with the Salafist movement have become routine in Dagestan. For example, on July 15, the police cracked down on the mosque on Vengerskikh
Salafists in Ingushetia Emerging as a Mainstream Force
Ingushetia’s governor, Yunus-Bek Yevkurov, recently declared: “There are no Wahhabis [Salafists] or Wahhabi mosques in Ingushetia; it is time for everyone to realize that! Those differences that we have today,
Salafists in Ingushetia Emerging as a Mainstream Force
Ingushetia’s governor, Yunus-Bek Yevkurov, recently declared: “There are no Wahhabis [Salafists] or Wahhabi mosques in Ingushetia; it is time for everyone to realize that! Those differences that we have today,
Chechens in Syria May Quit Islamic State After Death of Umar Shishani
People in Georgia’s Pankisi Gorge have been going quietly, one by one, to Tengiz Batirashvili, the younger brother of Umar Shishani (Batirashvili), to express their condolences in connection with Umar
Non-Chechen Candidates from Moscow Plans to Run for Seats Representing the North Caucasus in Upcoming Parliamentary Elections
On September 18, 2016, Chechnya along with the rest of Russia will vote in the elections to the Russian State Duma. Chechens will also elect the governor of their republic,
Non-Chechen Candidates from Moscow Plans to Run for Seats Representing the North Caucasus in Upcoming Parliamentary Elections
On September 18, 2016, Chechnya along with the rest of Russia will vote in the elections to the Russian State Duma. Chechens will also elect the governor of their republic,
Chechens in Syria May Quit Islamic State After Death of Umar Shishani
People in Georgia’s Pankisi Gorge have been going quietly, one by one, to Tengiz Batirashvili, the younger brother of Umar Shishani (Batirashvili), to express their condolences in connection with Umar
Russian Security Services Target Muslim Cleric
Police in Moscow this week arrested the imam of one of the city’s mosques, Makhmud Velitov. The authorities accused the cleric of “public justification of terrorism” as described in Article
Russian Security Services Target Muslim Cleric
Police in Moscow this week arrested the imam of one of the city’s mosques, Makhmud Velitov. The authorities accused the cleric of “public justification of terrorism” as described in Article
Russia’s National Antiterrorist Committee Reports Special Operation in Dagestan
Russia’s National Antiterrorist Committee (NAK) reported that during a special operation in Dagestan’s Karabudakhkent district on July 7–8, “as a result of operational and combat activities, the forces of the
Russia’s National Antiterrorist Committee Reports Special Operation in Dagestan
Russia’s National Antiterrorist Committee (NAK) reported that during a special operation in Dagestan’s Karabudakhkent district on July 7–8, “as a result of operational and combat activities, the forces of the
Turkish Authorities Point to North Caucasian Role in Istanbul Terrorist Attack, but Details Remain Murky
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan said, on July 5, that the June 28 attack at Istanbul’s international airport was carried out by natives of Dagestan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan (Korrespondent.net, July
Turkish Authorities Point to North Caucasian Role in Istanbul Terrorist Attack, but Details Remain Murky
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan said, on July 5, that the June 28 attack at Istanbul’s international airport was carried out by natives of Dagestan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan (Korrespondent.net, July
Alleged Chechen Mastermind of Istanbul Airport Attack Unpopular Within Chechen Diaspora
From the start of the conflict in Syria, access to the conflict zone has only been possible from the Turkish side. The militants’ dependence on Turkey forced them to avoid
Alleged Chechen Mastermind of Istanbul Airport Attack Unpopular Within Chechen Diaspora
From the start of the conflict in Syria, access to the conflict zone has only been possible from the Turkish side. The militants’ dependence on Turkey forced them to avoid
Russian Observers Fail to Understand What Is Radicalizing North Caucasian Youth
For the past month, several events happened in Moscow related to the problem of radicalization of North Caucasian youth and the replenishment of the Islamic State’s ranks by residents of
Russian Observers Fail to Understand What Is Radicalizing North Caucasian Youth
For the past month, several events happened in Moscow related to the problem of radicalization of North Caucasian youth and the replenishment of the Islamic State’s ranks by residents of
Yevkurov Tries to Paper Over Ingushetia’s Sufi-Salafist Rift
Tensions between two Russian regions, Chechnya and Ingushetia, tend to oscillate, with top officials of the two territories periodically quarreling with each other. Chechnya and Ingushetia are not simply neighbors,
Yevkurov Tries to Paper Over Ingushetia’s Sufi-Salafist Rift
Tensions between two Russian regions, Chechnya and Ingushetia, tend to oscillate, with top officials of the two territories periodically quarreling with each other. Chechnya and Ingushetia are not simply neighbors,
Sixteen Rebels Killed in North Caucasus in Just One Week
After the armed Islamist underground movement in southern Dagestan lost ten militants, including the group’s amir, Abu Yasir (Gasan Abdullaev) (see EDM, June 23), the militants of the armed underground
Sixteen Rebels Killed in North Caucasus in Just One Week
After the armed Islamist underground movement in southern Dagestan lost ten militants, including the group’s amir, Abu Yasir (Gasan Abdullaev) (see EDM, June 23), the militants of the armed underground
Russian Authorities Destroy Southern Dagestani Jamaat
Russian security services conducted a special operation, on June 16–17, against militants in southern Dagestan’s Suleiman-Stalsky and Tabasaran districts. During the operation, the security forces located ten armed men in
Russian Authorities Destroy Southern Dagestani Jamaat
Russian security services conducted a special operation, on June 16–17, against militants in southern Dagestan’s Suleiman-Stalsky and Tabasaran districts. During the operation, the security forces located ten armed men in
Disappearances in Dagestan Connected to Police Campaign Against Salafists
The Memorial human rights center has monitored the situation in the North Caucasus since the start of the first Russian-Chechen War, in 1994. Memorial’s latest report, which covers the past
Disappearances in Dagestan Connected to Police Campaign Against Salafists
The Memorial human rights center has monitored the situation in the North Caucasus since the start of the first Russian-Chechen War, in 1994. Memorial’s latest report, which covers the past
Rebels in Ingushetia Step up Their Activities
The end of May–beginning of June turned out to be quite a tense period in Ingushetia, with the armed Islamist opposition suddenly becoming more active than in previous years. The
Rebels in Ingushetia Step up Their Activities
The end of May–beginning of June turned out to be quite a tense period in Ingushetia, with the armed Islamist opposition suddenly becoming more active than in previous years. The
Muslim al-Shishani: Georgian-Born Militant in Syria Falls on Hard Times
Mairbek Vatchagaev Muslim al-Shishani is the nom de guerre of Murad Margoshvili, commander of the Junud al-Sham (“Soldiers of Syria”) insurgent group operating in Syria. Al-Shishani is a Georgian national,
Sufi-Salafist Tension Rises as Insurgent Violence Decreases in North Caucasus
A well-known and popular Salafist preacher, Khamzat Chumakov, continues to spark controversy in Ingushetia. Chumakov responds to accusations made against him in Chechnya with lengthy rebuttals and comments made during
Sufi-Salafist Tension Rises as Insurgent Violence Decreases in North Caucasus
A well-known and popular Salafist preacher, Khamzat Chumakov, continues to spark controversy in Ingushetia. Chumakov responds to accusations made against him in Chechnya with lengthy rebuttals and comments made during
Russian Authorities Appear to Exaggerate Level of IS Activity
On May 21, Russian media reported that a group of young people with ties to the so-called Islamic State (IS) had been detained. According to the police, “the group consisted
Russian Authorities Appear to Exaggerate Level of IS Activity
On May 21, Russian media reported that a group of young people with ties to the so-called Islamic State (IS) had been detained. According to the police, “the group consisted
In New Video, Georgian-Born Muslim al-Shishani Discusses Russian Presence in Syria
Muslim al-Shishani is the nom de guerre of Murad Margoshvili, commander of the Junud al-Sham (“Soldiers of Syria”) insurgent group operating in Syria. Margoshivili is a Georgian national, but he
In New Video, Georgian-Born Muslim al-Shishani Discusses Russian Presence in Syria
Muslim al-Shishani is the nom de guerre of Murad Margoshvili, commander of the Junud al-Sham (“Soldiers of Syria”) insurgent group operating in Syria. Margoshivili is a Georgian national, but he
Police Suffer Losses in Islamic State–Inspired Attack in Southern Dagestan
A recent police operation against militants in the Dagestani city of Derbent was so bloody that even the Islamic State (IS) mentioned it. The clash started as police were checking
Police Suffer Losses in Islamic State–Inspired Attack in Southern Dagestan
A recent police operation against militants in the Dagestani city of Derbent was so bloody that even the Islamic State (IS) mentioned it. The clash started as police were checking
Insurgents in Chechnya Down, but Not Out
Over the past several years, there have not been many reports from Chechnya regarding insurgent activities in the republic. But while the Chechen government claims the republic has overcome the
Insurgents in Chechnya Down, but Not Out
Over the past several years, there have not been many reports from Chechnya regarding insurgent activities in the republic. But while the Chechen government claims the republic has overcome the
Insurgent Violence in Dagestan Lower Than in Previous Years, but Still Frequent
The Dagestani authorities’ reassurances that the intensity of rebel violence in the republic is declining are partly true, but there is also another trend in how the government is presenting
Insurgent Violence in Dagestan Lower Than in Previous Years, but Still Frequent
The Dagestani authorities’ reassurances that the intensity of rebel violence in the republic is declining are partly true, but there is also another trend in how the government is presenting
Russian Media Grossly Exaggerates Level of Support for Islamic State in Europe’s Chechen Diaspora
Russian media coverage of the Islamic State (IS) continues to expand. Earlier, the Russian press primarily covered the Caucasus Emirate, Hizb ut-Tahrir and other Islamic movements. Now, all Islam-related themes
Russian Media Grossly Exaggerates Level of Support for Islamic State in Europe’s Chechen Diaspora
Russian media coverage of the Islamic State (IS) continues to expand. Earlier, the Russian press primarily covered the Caucasus Emirate, Hizb ut-Tahrir and other Islamic movements. Now, all Islam-related themes
Can Adygea Continue to Avoid Problems Related to the Spread of Radical Islam?
The Republic of Adygea is located in the middle of the northwestern Caucasus, in the watershed of the Kuban, Laba and Belaya rivers. Although historically the area was the homeland
Can Adygea Continue to Avoid Problems Related to the Spread of Radical Islam?
The Republic of Adygea is located in the middle of the northwestern Caucasus, in the watershed of the Kuban, Laba and Belaya rivers. Although historically the area was the homeland
Islamic State Continues to Gain Influence in Southern Russia
Karachaevo-Cherkessia, a mountainous republic in the northwestern Caucasus, has long been out of the news when it comes to attacks by the armed Islamist underground movement against government forces. Russia’s
Islamic State Continues to Gain Influence in Southern Russia
Karachaevo-Cherkessia, a mountainous republic in the northwestern Caucasus, has long been out of the news when it comes to attacks by the armed Islamist underground movement against government forces. Russia’s
Kabardino-Balkaria’s Governor Says Militants Returning From Syria Represent Real Threat
In Kabardino-Balkaria, as in other republics of the North Caucasus, public debate intensifies from time to time regarding republican residents going off to fight in the Syrian civil war on
Kabardino-Balkaria’s Governor Says Militants Returning From Syria Represent Real Threat
In Kabardino-Balkaria, as in other republics of the North Caucasus, public debate intensifies from time to time regarding republican residents going off to fight in the Syrian civil war on
Ingush Authorities Offer Rosy Picture of Fight Against Terrorism
In his recent speech, the head of the Republic of Ingushetia, Yunus-Bek Yevkurov, said that several terrorism-related draft bills are under consideration in the Russian State Duma. He noted that
Ingush Authorities Offer Rosy Picture of Fight Against Terrorism
In his recent speech, the head of the Republic of Ingushetia, Yunus-Bek Yevkurov, said that several terrorism-related draft bills are under consideration in the Russian State Duma. He noted that
Ingush Authorities Offer Rosy Picture of Fight Against Terrorism
In his recent speech, the head of the Republic of Ingushetia, Yunus-Bek Yevkurov, said that several terrorism-related draft bills are under consideration in the Russian State Duma. He noted that
Murder of Chechen in Turkey Just Latest in Series of Apparent Russian Killings Abroad
According to open media sources, over the past five years, five representatives of the Chechen Republic of Ichkeria and the Caucasus Emirate have been killed in Turkey. All five were
Murder of Chechen in Turkey Just Latest in Series of Apparent Russian Killings Abroad
According to open media sources, over the past five years, five representatives of the Chechen Republic of Ichkeria and the Caucasus Emirate have been killed in Turkey. All five were
Reports of IS Suicide Bombers Targeting Police in Stavropol Lack Credibility
On April 11, the Russian state news agency RIA Novosti quoted a government official as saying that “according to the preliminary information, three suicide bombers blew themselves up near the
Reports of IS Suicide Bombers Targeting Police in Stavropol Lack Credibility
On April 11, the Russian state news agency RIA Novosti quoted a government official as saying that “according to the preliminary information, three suicide bombers blew themselves up near the
One Year Later: Islamic State Continues to Expand Inside Russia
The so-called Islamic State (IS) is increasingly infiltrating Russia, threatening its security (Lenta.ru, June 24, 2015). It has been less than one year since the IS claimed to have a
One Year Later: Islamic State Continues to Expand Inside Russia
The so-called Islamic State (IS) is increasingly infiltrating Russia, threatening its security (Lenta.ru, June 24, 2015). It has been less than one year since the IS claimed to have a
IS-Affiliated Rebels in North Caucasus Show Less Strength Than Expected
Two terrorist attacks recently took place in Dagestan. On March 29, a police officer was killed in an attack on a Ministry of Interior troop convoy in Novy Khushet, a
IS-Affiliated Rebels in North Caucasus Show Less Strength Than Expected
Two terrorist attacks recently took place in Dagestan. On March 29, a police officer was killed in an attack on a Ministry of Interior troop convoy in Novy Khushet, a
IS-Affiliated Rebels in North Caucasus Show Less Strength Than Expected
Two terrorist attacks recently took place in Dagestan. On March 29, a police officer was killed in an attack on a Ministry of Interior troop convoy in Novy Khushet, a
Ingushetia’s Authorities Face Double Threat of Militants Returning From Syria and Salafis at Home
From the outside, the situation in Ingushetia appears deceptively quiet. But in reality, the republic is not nearly as peaceful as, for example, Adygea, where, despite tensions, no open conflict
Ingushetia’s Authorities Face Double Threat of Militants Returning From Syria and Salafis at Home
From the outside, the situation in Ingushetia appears deceptively quiet. But in reality, the republic is not nearly as peaceful as, for example, Adygea, where, despite tensions, no open conflict
Insurgent Violence in Dagestan Continues Despite Rift Between Supporters of Caucasus Emirate and Islamic State
In the evening of March 29, two trucks from the Provisional Operative Group of the Russian Interior Ministry were blown up at the 831st kilometer marker of the Kavkaz federal
Insurgent Violence in Dagestan Continues Despite Rift Between Supporters of Caucasus Emirate and Islamic State
In the evening of March 29, two trucks from the Provisional Operative Group of the Russian Interior Ministry were blown up at the 831st kilometer marker of the Kavkaz federal
Lezgin Leader Assassinated in Dagestan
The Lezgin ethnic group has been divided between southern Dagestan, in Russia, and northern Azerbaijan since the breakup of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR). Although the division between
Lezgin Leader Assassinated in Dagestan
The Lezgin ethnic group has been divided between southern Dagestan, in Russia, and northern Azerbaijan since the breakup of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR). Although the division between
With Putin’s Blessing, Kadyrov Continues to Expand Roles and Missions of Chechen Special Forces
Ramzan Kadyrov’s substantial interest in the development of the Chechen special forces has been noted before (see EDM, March 27, 2015). Chechnya’s ruler tries to portray these units as model
With Putin’s Blessing, Kadyrov Continues to Expand Roles and Missions of Chechen Special Forces
Ramzan Kadyrov’s substantial interest in the development of the Chechen special forces has been noted before (see EDM, March 27, 2015). Chechnya’s ruler tries to portray these units as model
Number of People Registered in Russia as Extremists Continues to Grow
In an attempt to decrease tensions in the North Caucasus, the Russian authorities set out to register all potential extremists who might carry out a terrorist attack, in the opinion
Number of People Registered in Russia as Extremists Continues to Grow
In an attempt to decrease tensions in the North Caucasus, the Russian authorities set out to register all potential extremists who might carry out a terrorist attack, in the opinion
Sufi-Salafist Tension Deepens After Attack on Salafist Cleric in Ingushetia
Enemies of the well-known Salafist preacher Khamzat Chumakov have been pursuing him for a while. In 2010, an improvised explosive device (IED) exploded under the Salafist cleric’s car. Chumakov was
Sufi-Salafist Tension Deepens After Attack on Salafist Cleric in Ingushetia
Enemies of the well-known Salafist preacher Khamzat Chumakov have been pursuing him for a while. In 2010, an improvised explosive device (IED) exploded under the Salafist cleric’s car. Chumakov was
Dagestani Insurgents Include Former Policemen and Other Officials
Operations by Russian security forces against militants of the armed Islamist underground movement in Dagestan are less frequent now than in previous years, yet they are still a part of
Dagestani Insurgents Include Former Policemen and Other Officials
Operations by Russian security forces against militants of the armed Islamist underground movement in Dagestan are less frequent now than in previous years, yet they are still a part of
Death of Top Chechen IS Commander May Change the Face of the Syrian Insurgency
On March 5, in the fighting for the city of al-Shaddadi in eastern Syria, one of the most influential commanders of the so-called Islamic State (IS), Tarkhan Batirashvili, a.k.a. Umar
Death of Top Chechen IS Commander May Change the Face of the Syrian Insurgency
On March 5, in the fighting for the city of al-Shaddadi in eastern Syria, one of the most influential commanders of the so-called Islamic State (IS), Tarkhan Batirashvili, a.k.a. Umar
Chechnya’s Planned New Oil Refinery Marks a Victory Over Rosneft
Many analysts say the two wars in Chechnya in the 1990s were caused by the republic’s oil. These analysts, however, have tended to overlook the fact that Chechnya no longer
Chechnya’s Planned New Oil Refinery Marks a Victory Over Rosneft
Many analysts say the two wars in Chechnya in the 1990s were caused by the republic’s oil. These analysts, however, have tended to overlook the fact that Chechnya no longer
Kadyrov at Loggerheads With Chechen Diaspora in Europe
Ramzan Kadyrov has repeatedly voiced discontent with the actions of Chechens who reside in Europe. During the first years of his rule in Chechnya, he managed to convince many of
Kadyrov at Loggerheads With Chechen Diaspora in Europe
Ramzan Kadyrov has repeatedly voiced discontent with the actions of Chechens who reside in Europe. During the first years of his rule in Chechnya, he managed to convince many of
Chechens Fighting in Syria Increasingly Joining Forces With Islamic State
Chechen militants in Syria have been going through organizational changes since last summer. The position of the Chechen militants in the Middle East was especially damaged by a conflict within
Chechens Fighting in Syria Increasingly Joining Forces With Islamic State
Chechen militants in Syria have been going through organizational changes since last summer. The position of the Chechen militants in the Middle East was especially damaged by a conflict within
Opposition Report on Ramzan Kadyrov Breaks No New Ground
The Russian opposition promised to deliver a groundbreaking report on Chechnya by Ilya Yashin, the deputy chairman of the Svoboda-Parnas party, long before February 23. On February 7, Yashin surprised
Opposition Report on Ramzan Kadyrov Breaks No New Ground
The Russian opposition promised to deliver a groundbreaking report on Chechnya by Ilya Yashin, the deputy chairman of the Svoboda-Parnas party, long before February 23. On February 7, Yashin surprised
Unresolved Historical Territorial Disputes Add to North Caucasus Tensions
Dagestan’s governor, Ramazan Abdulatipov, held a surprise meeting with Chechen activists who support restoring the Aukhov district in the republic. The issue dates back to 1944, when the Soviet government
Unresolved Historical Territorial Disputes Add to North Caucasus Tensions
Dagestan’s governor, Ramazan Abdulatipov, held a surprise meeting with Chechen activists who support restoring the Aukhov district in the republic. The issue dates back to 1944, when the Soviet government
Militants Loyal to Islamic State Become More Active in North Caucasus
Two years ago, the then-leader of the Caucasus Emirate (CE), Ali Abu Muhammad (Aliashab Kebekov), surprised many observers when he condemned suicide bomber terrorist attacks. Moreover, he stated that such
Militants Loyal to Islamic State Become More Active in North Caucasus
Two years ago, the then-leader of the Caucasus Emirate (CE), Ali Abu Muhammad (Aliashab Kebekov), surprised many observers when he condemned suicide bomber terrorist attacks. Moreover, he stated that such
Leaders of Chechnya and Ingushetia Unite Against Salafists
Ingushetia is presently engulfed in a dispute over accusations made by the Chechen government and religious authorities against the activities of Salafist clerics in the republic—Khamzat Chumakov and Isa Tsechoev.
Leaders of Chechnya and Ingushetia Unite Against Salafists
Ingushetia is presently engulfed in a dispute over accusations made by the Chechen government and religious authorities against the activities of Salafist clerics in the republic—Khamzat Chumakov and Isa Tsechoev.
Are Chechen Special Forces Fighting in Syria?
After the Kremlin denied having ground troops in Syria, the Russian leadership was surprised by Ramzan Kadyrov’s statement that Chechen special forces were fighting in the Middle East against the
Are Chechen Special Forces Fighting in Syria?
After the Kremlin denied having ground troops in Syria, the Russian leadership was surprised by Ramzan Kadyrov’s statement that Chechen special forces were fighting in the Middle East against the
Russian Defense Ministry Holds More Exercises in Dagestan
Following the military exercises conducted in Dagestan last month by the snipers of the Southern Military District motorized infantry, during which troops learned speed shooting at the Dalny shooting range
Russian Defense Ministry Holds More Exercises in Dagestan
Following the military exercises conducted in Dagestan last month by the snipers of the Southern Military District motorized infantry, during which troops learned speed shooting at the Dalny shooting range
Khasavyurt Protest Shows Growing Power of Salafists in Dagestan
Two months ago (December 2015), authorities in Dagestan attempted to shut down mosques in the capital Makhachkala that they did not control. The attempt ended in an embarrassing defeat for
Khasavyurt Protest Shows Growing Power of Salafists in Dagestan
Two months ago (December 2015), authorities in Dagestan attempted to shut down mosques in the capital Makhachkala that they did not control. The attempt ended in an embarrassing defeat for
Georgian President, US Ambassador Deny Russian Claim That Terrorists Are in Pankisi Gorge
Speaking at a press conference reviewing the year 2015, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov unexpectedly revived a question thought to have been closed long ago. “We are receiving news that
Georgian President, US Ambassador Deny Russian Claim That Terrorists Are in Pankisi Gorge
Speaking at a press conference reviewing the year 2015, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov unexpectedly revived a question thought to have been closed long ago. “We are receiving news that
Russian Opposition and Chechens Living in Europe Condemn Ramzan Kadyrov
Ramzan Kadyrov and his Russian critics have squabbled for the last two weeks. Most of those who criticized Kadyrov are either members of the Russian political opposition or rights activists
Russian Opposition and Chechens Living in Europe Condemn Ramzan Kadyrov
Ramzan Kadyrov and his Russian critics have squabbled for the last two weeks. Most of those who criticized Kadyrov are either members of the Russian political opposition or rights activists
Insurgents and Security Forces Continue to Battle in Dagestan
Since the start of the year, military exercises have taken place in both Chechnya and Dagestan. News reports emphasize that the exercises have been taking place in the mountains. According
Insurgents and Security Forces Continue to Battle in Dagestan
Since the start of the year, military exercises have taken place in both Chechnya and Dagestan. News reports emphasize that the exercises have been taking place in the mountains. According
Insurgency in the Northwest Caucasus Remains Active
A strange armed clash that took place in Nalchik, the capital of Kabardino-Balkaria, in mid-January had unexpected results for government forces. The authorities introduced a counterterrorist operation regime in the
Insurgency in the Northwest Caucasus Remains Active
A strange armed clash that took place in Nalchik, the capital of Kabardino-Balkaria, in mid-January had unexpected results for government forces. The authorities introduced a counterterrorist operation regime in the
Salafists Join Ingushetia’s Government in Opposing Republican Mufti
Since the conquest of the North Caucasus in the 19th century, Russian politicians have generally failed to understand the essence of Islam and repeatedly tried to create a pro-Russian Muslim
Salafists Join Ingushetia’s Government in Opposing Republican Mufti
Since the conquest of the North Caucasus in the 19th century, Russian politicians have generally failed to understand the essence of Islam and repeatedly tried to create a pro-Russian Muslim
Security Services May Be Threatening Official Clergy in North Ossetia
The Ossetians in North Ossetia–Alania have primarily been Christian for the past millennium, but some are Muslim. In a majority of cases, the Digors, an Ossetian subethnic group, are associated
Security Services May Be Threatening Official Clergy in North Ossetia
The Ossetians in North Ossetia–Alania have primarily been Christian for the past millennium, but some are Muslim. In a majority of cases, the Digors, an Ossetian subethnic group, are associated
Is It Too Early to Write off the Caucasus Emirate?
With the start of a new year, the situation involving the militarized Islamic jamaat of Kabarda, Balkaria and Karachai (KBK), which operates in two North Caucasian republics, Kabardino-Balkaria and Karachaevo-Cherkessia,
Is It Too Early to Write off the Caucasus Emirate?
With the start of a new year, the situation involving the militarized Islamic jamaat of Kabarda, Balkaria and Karachai (KBK), which operates in two North Caucasian republics, Kabardino-Balkaria and Karachaevo-Cherkessia,
Growing Islamic State Influence in North Caucasus Casts Shadow on Local Salafists
In 2015, Russia changed its assessment of threats, shifting its focus from the Caucasus Emirate to members of the so-called Islamic State (IS). The Russian government’s concern is not so
Growing Islamic State Influence in North Caucasus Casts Shadow on Local Salafists
In 2015, Russia changed its assessment of threats, shifting its focus from the Caucasus Emirate to members of the so-called Islamic State (IS). The Russian government’s concern is not so
The Islamic State and Salafism Gained Ground in North Caucasus Last Year
Events in the North Caucasus in 2015 showed that the insurgency in the region continued to decline—a trend first noted in 2011. No official figures on insurgent violence are yet
The Islamic State and Salafism Gained Ground in North Caucasus Last Year
Events in the North Caucasus in 2015 showed that the insurgency in the region continued to decline—a trend first noted in 2011. No official figures on insurgent violence are yet
Young Islamic Radicals Carry out Arson Attacks on Sufi Tombs in Chechnya
Chechnya’s two-century-old Sufi tradition experienced its first crisis 30 years ago, when the first Salafists appeared in the republic. The Salafists did not simply proclaim the supremacy of their teachings,
Young Islamic Radicals Carry out Arson Attacks on Sufi Tombs in Chechnya
Chechnya’s two-century-old Sufi tradition experienced its first crisis 30 years ago, when the first Salafists appeared in the republic. The Salafists did not simply proclaim the supremacy of their teachings,
Growing Number of Russian Converts to Islam Joining Insurgents at Home and Abroad
With 28-year-old Anatoly Zemlyanka’s notorious killing of 23-year-old member Magomed Khasiev, ethnic-Russian Muslims are again in the spotlight. Khasiev (a. k. a. Yevgeny Yudin), an ethnic-Russian convert to Islam, came
Growing Number of Russian Converts to Islam Joining Insurgents at Home and Abroad
With 28-year-old Anatoly Zemlyanka’s notorious killing of 23-year-old member Magomed Khasiev, ethnic-Russian Muslims are again in the spotlight. Khasiev (a. k. a. Yevgeny Yudin), an ethnic-Russian convert to Islam, came
Estimates of the Number of Dagestanis Fighting in Syria Range from 600 to 5,000
Recent reports suggest that the number of foreign recruits to the Islamic State (IS) has increased two-fold over the past year and a half (Gazeta.ru, December 8). At the same
Estimates of the Number of Dagestanis Fighting in Syria Range from 600 to 5,000
Recent reports suggest that the number of foreign recruits to the Islamic State (IS) has increased two-fold over the past year and a half (Gazeta.ru, December 8). At the same
Russian Intelligence Experiences Setback in Effort to Penetrate Islamic State Network in Syria
Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) Director John Brennan has estimated that 2,000–3,000 militants from Russia are fighting in Syria (Mk.ru, November 16), half the number given by Russian President Vladimir Putin
Russian Intelligence Experiences Setback in Effort to Penetrate Islamic State Network in Syria
Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) Director John Brennan has estimated that 2,000–3,000 militants from Russia are fighting in Syria (Mk.ru, November 16), half the number given by Russian President Vladimir Putin
Is Sufi Islam Losing Its Dominant Role in Dagestan?
The statutes of the Spiritual Board of Muslims of Dagestan say that all imams in the republican mosques must be appointed by the official mufti of Dagestan. In practice, this
Is Sufi Islam Losing Its Dominant Role in Dagestan?
The statutes of the Spiritual Board of Muslims of Dagestan say that all imams in the republican mosques must be appointed by the official mufti of Dagestan. In practice, this
Security Forces Reportedly Kill 11 Rebels in Kabardino-Balkaria
Kabardino-Balkarian jamaat has regained little of its strength since its leader, Amir Abdullah (Robert Zankishiev), was killed in a police operation in Nalchik on November 10 (TASS, November 10). In
Security Forces Reportedly Kill 11 Rebels in Kabardino-Balkaria
Kabardino-Balkarian jamaat has regained little of its strength since its leader, Amir Abdullah (Robert Zankishiev), was killed in a police operation in Nalchik on November 10 (TASS, November 10). In
Death of Influential Dagestani Sufi Sheikh May Alter Balance of Power in Republic
The recent elections for the sheikh and imam of a mosque located on Vengerskikh Boitsov Street (Hungarian Fighters Street), in the Dagestani capital of Makhachkala, were quite characteristic of the
Death of Influential Dagestani Sufi Sheikh May Alter Balance of Power in Republic
The recent elections for the sheikh and imam of a mosque located on Vengerskikh Boitsov Street (Hungarian Fighters Street), in the Dagestani capital of Makhachkala, were quite characteristic of the
Was Chechnya’s Leader the Target of an IS-Inspired Assassination Plot?
Experts have paid insufficient attention to news of an assassination attempt against Ramzan Kadyrov at the beginning of November 2015. The reported attempt on the Chechen ruler’s life illuminates what
Was Chechnya’s Leader the Target of an IS-Inspired Assassination Plot?
Experts have paid insufficient attention to news of an assassination attempt against Ramzan Kadyrov at the beginning of November 2015. The reported attempt on the Chechen ruler’s life illuminates what
Islamic State Apparently Wins Its Competition With Caucasus Emirate
Following the killing of the Ingush jamaat’s amir in Nazran on August 31, the Kabardino-Balkarian jamaat also experienced a major setback. The Russian security services managed to kill Robert Zankishiev,
Islamic State Apparently Wins Its Competition With Caucasus Emirate
Following the killing of the Ingush jamaat’s amir in Nazran on August 31, the Kabardino-Balkarian jamaat also experienced a major setback. The Russian security services managed to kill Robert Zankishiev,
Ingush Jamaat Loses Another Amir
On October 31, government forces killed the leader of the Ingush jamaat, Beslan Makhauri, better known as Amir Muhammad. Makhauri was killed along with another insurgent, named Ilyas Vedzizhev, in
Ingush Jamaat Loses Another Amir
On October 31, government forces killed the leader of the Ingush jamaat, Beslan Makhauri, better known as Amir Muhammad. Makhauri was killed along with another insurgent, named Ilyas Vedzizhev, in
Assassinations of Rebel-Connected Chechens Continue in Turkey
Another name has been added to the list of Chechens killed outside Russia: Abdulvakhid Edilgeriev was shot dead last month in Istanbul’s Kayasehir district, which many Chechens have made their
Assassinations of Rebel-Connected Chechens Continue in Turkey
Another name has been added to the list of Chechens killed outside Russia: Abdulvakhid Edilgeriev was shot dead last month in Istanbul’s Kayasehir district, which many Chechens have made their
Chechen Authorities Claim to Have Identified Channel for Supplying Recruits to Syria
Chechen authorities claim that a group of 20 young Chechens and Ingush studying in Moscow tried to leave Russia for Syria and were stopped at the last moment. According to
Chechen Authorities Claim to Have Identified Channel for Supplying Recruits to Syria
Chechen authorities claim that a group of 20 young Chechens and Ingush studying in Moscow tried to leave Russia for Syria and were stopped at the last moment. According to
Demise of Caucasus Emirate Causes Rift Among Chechen Militants
Amir Abu Khamza (Ahmad Umarov), brother of the slain leader of the Caucasus Emirate, Doku Umarov, has made an unexpected statement. Over the past several years, Abu Khamza has been
Demise of Caucasus Emirate Causes Rift Among Chechen Militants
Amir Abu Khamza (Ahmad Umarov), brother of the slain leader of the Caucasus Emirate, Doku Umarov, has made an unexpected statement. Over the past several years, Abu Khamza has been
Islamic State Branch in North Caucasus Follows Same Organizational Pattern as Caucasus Emirate
The head of the Russian Investigative Committee’s branch in Dagestan, Eduard Kaburneyev, recently made public that a criminal investigation has been launched into the establishment of the “Velayat Dagestan of
Islamic State Branch in North Caucasus Follows Same Organizational Pattern as Caucasus Emirate
The head of the Russian Investigative Committee’s branch in Dagestan, Eduard Kaburneyev, recently made public that a criminal investigation has been launched into the establishment of the “Velayat Dagestan of
Russian Authorities Launch Crackdown on Hizb ut-Tahrir
Russian authorities have unrelentingly cracked down on the Islamic organization Hizb ut-Tahrir al-Islami (The Party of Islamic Liberation). Indeed, Russia’s Supreme Court first designated the Hizb ut-Tahrir a terrorist organization
Russian Authorities Launch Crackdown on Hizb ut-Tahrir
Russian authorities have unrelentingly cracked down on the Islamic organization Hizb ut-Tahrir al-Islami (The Party of Islamic Liberation). Indeed, Russia’s Supreme Court first designated the Hizb ut-Tahrir a terrorist organization
Insurgents in Ingushetia Remain Active
Over the past ten years, the Russian government has repeatedly claimed that the situation in the North Caucasus has stabilized (Regnum.ru, October 14). Speaking at a meeting of the National
Insurgents in Ingushetia Remain Active
Over the past ten years, the Russian government has repeatedly claimed that the situation in the North Caucasus has stabilized (Regnum.ru, October 14). Speaking at a meeting of the National
Islamic State ‘Terrorist Suspects’ in Moscow Rented Apartment From GRU Colonel
Muscovites were surprised by news reports of a thwarted terrorist attack (Lenta.ru, October 11) planned by militants with ties to the so-called Islamic State (IS). Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB)
Islamic State ‘Terrorist Suspects’ in Moscow Rented Apartment From GRU Colonel
Muscovites were surprised by news reports of a thwarted terrorist attack (Lenta.ru, October 11) planned by militants with ties to the so-called Islamic State (IS). Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB)
Is Islamic State Operating in Chechnya?
A recent special operation in Grozny against suspected militants of the so-called Islamic State (IS) took Chechnya’s residents and analysts who follow the situation in the republic by surprise. Readers
Is Islamic State Operating in Chechnya?
A recent special operation in Grozny against suspected militants of the so-called Islamic State (IS) took Chechnya’s residents and analysts who follow the situation in the republic by surprise. Readers
Afghan General Abdul Rashid Dostum Meets With Ramzan Kadyrov in Grozny
The vice president of Afghanistan, General Abdul Rashid Dostum, made an unexpected visit to Grozny earlier this month. Dostum attended celebrations for the birthday of Chechnya’s ruler, Ramzan Kadyrov, surprising
Afghan General Abdul Rashid Dostum Meets With Ramzan Kadyrov in Grozny
The vice president of Afghanistan, General Abdul Rashid Dostum, made an unexpected visit to Grozny earlier this month. Dostum attended celebrations for the birthday of Chechnya’s ruler, Ramzan Kadyrov, surprising
Like Russia, Chechnya Is Being Increasingly Drawn Into Syrian Conflict
Russia officially declared its intentions to intervene in the Syrian civil war only in September, but Moscow has been backing President Bashar al-Assad’s regime since the start of the conflict.
Like Russia, Chechnya Is Being Increasingly Drawn Into Syrian Conflict
Russia officially declared its intentions to intervene in the Syrian civil war only in September, but Moscow has been backing President Bashar al-Assad’s regime since the start of the conflict.
Militants Who Fought in Syria Accused of Killing Five Hunters in Dagestan
Russia’s security services recently launched a special operation across Dagestan, the largest republic of the North Caucasus. Combined forces from the military, police and security services specifically targeted five Dagestani
Militants Who Fought in Syria Accused of Killing Five Hunters in Dagestan
Russia’s security services recently launched a special operation across Dagestan, the largest republic of the North Caucasus. Combined forces from the military, police and security services specifically targeted five Dagestani
Is Moscow Set to Target Russians Fighting Against Assad in Syria?
Russia’s involvement in the Syrian conflict on behalf of Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad may take the war in the Middle East to a new level. The main concern of North
Is Moscow Set to Target Russians Fighting Against Assad in Syria?
Russia’s involvement in the Syrian conflict on behalf of Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad may take the war in the Middle East to a new level. The main concern of North
Putin Plays Peacemaker Between Kadyrov and Yevkurov in Sochi
Russia President Vladimir Putin’s meeting with the governors of two North Caucasian republics, Chechnya and Ingushetia, went almost unnoticed among North Caucasus analysts. Most experts reiterated the official explanation for
Putin Plays Peacemaker Between Kadyrov and Yevkurov in Sochi
Russia President Vladimir Putin’s meeting with the governors of two North Caucasian republics, Chechnya and Ingushetia, went almost unnoticed among North Caucasus analysts. Most experts reiterated the official explanation for
As Moscow’s Military Involvement in Syria Receives More Attention, Its Officials Focus on Russians Fighting Against al-Assad
The Russian media ramped up coverage of Syria after reports emerged that the Russian military is actively taking part in the conflict on the side of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.
As Moscow’s Military Involvement in Syria Receives More Attention, Its Officials Focus on Russians Fighting Against al-Assad
The Russian media ramped up coverage of Syria after reports emerged that the Russian military is actively taking part in the conflict on the side of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.
Is Russia Training Chechen Commandos to Help Syrian Government Forces?
Politicians in the North Caucasus are increasingly calling on the government to step up efforts against the so-called Islamic State (IS) and take action against Russian citizens who support it.
Is Russia Training Chechen Commandos to Help Syrian Government Forces?
Politicians in the North Caucasus are increasingly calling on the government to step up efforts against the so-called Islamic State (IS) and take action against Russian citizens who support it.
Muslim Clerics in the North Caucasus: Between the Hammer and the Anvil
The patterns of assassinations of clerics in the North Caucasus changed significantly after the establishment of the Caucasus Emirate. Prior to the advent of the Caucasus Emirate, the insurgents did
Muslim Clerics in the North Caucasus: Between the Hammer and the Anvil
The patterns of assassinations of clerics in the North Caucasus changed significantly after the establishment of the Caucasus Emirate. Prior to the advent of the Caucasus Emirate, the insurgents did
Dagestan Increasingly Resembles Chechnya
Dagestan is the largest republic of the North Caucasus and, at the same time, the region’s most unstable because of the frequent attacks by the armed Islamic opposition movement. The
Dagestan Increasingly Resembles Chechnya
Dagestan is the largest republic of the North Caucasus and, at the same time, the region’s most unstable because of the frequent attacks by the armed Islamic opposition movement. The
Islamic State Has Done Little in North Caucasus Despite Winning Over Regional Militants
August was a turbulent month for the armed Islamic resistance movement in the North Caucasus, with the Russian security services carrying out multiple successful operations. According to an independent news
Islamic State Has Done Little in North Caucasus Despite Winning Over Regional Militants
August was a turbulent month for the armed Islamic resistance movement in the North Caucasus, with the Russian security services carrying out multiple successful operations. According to an independent news
Several North Caucasus Human Rights Organizations Labeled ‘Foreign Agents’
After the scandal following the labeling of the Russian human rights organizations like Memorial, under the leadership of Oleg Orlov, and Grazhdanskoe Sodeistvie, under the leadership of Svetlana Gannushkina, as
Several North Caucasus Human Rights Organizations Labeled ‘Foreign Agents’
After the scandal following the labeling of the Russian human rights organizations like Memorial, under the leadership of Oleg Orlov, and Grazhdanskoe Sodeistvie, under the leadership of Svetlana Gannushkina, as
Grozny Demands Prisons in Bashkortostan to Be Investigated for Mistreatment of Chechen Prisoners
By and large, the policy of the current leadership of Chechnya is to emphasize the positive sides of life both in the republic itself and in the Russian Federation in
Grozny Demands Prisons in Bashkortostan to Be Investigated for Mistreatment of Chechen Prisoners
By and large, the policy of the current leadership of Chechnya is to emphasize the positive sides of life both in the republic itself and in the Russian Federation in
After Loss of Three Senior Commanders, Is the Caucasus Emirate on the Ropes?
The forces trying to prolong the life of the Caucasus Emirate (CE) have suffered a major setback. This third blow in nearly six months may put an end to this
After Loss of Three Senior Commanders, Is the Caucasus Emirate on the Ropes?
The forces trying to prolong the life of the Caucasus Emirate (CE) have suffered a major setback. This third blow in nearly six months may put an end to this
Two Chechen Battalions Are Fighting in Ukraine on Kyiv’s Side
It did not come as much of a surprise when the leader of Chechnya, Ramzan Kadyrov, acknowledged that pro-Russian Chechens were involved in the conflict in Ukraine. This was something
Two Chechen Battalions Are Fighting in Ukraine on Kyiv’s Side
It did not come as much of a surprise when the leader of Chechnya, Ramzan Kadyrov, acknowledged that pro-Russian Chechens were involved in the conflict in Ukraine. This was something
Moscow Launches Operations Against Suspected Pro-IS forces in Ingushetia, Kabardino-Balkaria
The militant underground movement in the North Caucasus suffered large losses in Chechnya and Kabardino-Balkaria at the start of August 2015. On August 2, special forces of the Federal Security
Moscow Launches Operations Against Suspected Pro-IS forces in Ingushetia, Kabardino-Balkaria
The militant underground movement in the North Caucasus suffered large losses in Chechnya and Kabardino-Balkaria at the start of August 2015. On August 2, special forces of the Federal Security
Islamic State Threat Forces Caucasus Emirate to Undergo Major Restructuring
Events at the end of 2014 appeared to indicate that the end of the Caucasus Emirate (CE) was near. That was when the leaders of the CE regional branches in
Islamic State Threat Forces Caucasus Emirate to Undergo Major Restructuring
Events at the end of 2014 appeared to indicate that the end of the Caucasus Emirate (CE) was near. That was when the leaders of the CE regional branches in
Moscow Paves the Way to Replace Dagestani Leader
Dagestan has not seen potentially destabilizing arrests of top officials since the arrest of the mayor of Makhachkala on June 1, 2013 (RIA Novosti, June 1, 2013). That is why
Moscow Paves the Way to Replace Dagestani Leader
Dagestan has not seen potentially destabilizing arrests of top officials since the arrest of the mayor of Makhachkala on June 1, 2013 (RIA Novosti, June 1, 2013). That is why
Russia Does Not Know How to Fight Islamic State Loyalists
Russia continues to surprise observers by its actions to counter the threat of the Islamic State (IS). Notably, Russian authorities recently updated the list of Islamic organizations that could harm
Russia Does Not Know How to Fight Islamic State Loyalists
Russia continues to surprise observers by its actions to counter the threat of the Islamic State (IS). Notably, Russian authorities recently updated the list of Islamic organizations that could harm
Moscow Uses Kadyrov in Kremlin Push for Rapprochement with Saudi Arabia
Chechnya, formally a Russian province, has found a place for itself in relations between Moscow and Riyadh. Indeed, in general, subnational units of the Russian Federation, in particular the Muslim
Moscow Uses Kadyrov in Kremlin Push for Rapprochement with Saudi Arabia
Chechnya, formally a Russian province, has found a place for itself in relations between Moscow and Riyadh. Indeed, in general, subnational units of the Russian Federation, in particular the Muslim
Southern Russia Mobilizes Against Islamic State
Russian news agencies reported that both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chechnya’s governor, Ramzan Kadyrov, expressed their condolences to the leadership of Iraq for the terrorist attack in Khan Bani
Southern Russia Mobilizes Against Islamic State
Russian news agencies reported that both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chechnya’s governor, Ramzan Kadyrov, expressed their condolences to the leadership of Iraq for the terrorist attack in Khan Bani
Three Rebels and a Republican Security Official Killed in Kabardino-Balkaria
On July 14, Russian government forces in Kabardino-Balkaria managed to kill three members of the Islamic underground during a special operation in the republic’s Baksan district. During a counterterrorist operation
Three Rebels and a Republican Security Official Killed in Kabardino-Balkaria
On July 14, Russian government forces in Kabardino-Balkaria managed to kill three members of the Islamic underground during a special operation in the republic’s Baksan district. During a counterterrorist operation
Is Ramazan Abdulatipov Under Attack?
Hardly any other political figure in the contemporary history of the North Caucasus can rival Ramazan Abdulatipov when it comes to the number of rumors about his resignation since the
Is Ramazan Abdulatipov Under Attack?
Hardly any other political figure in the contemporary history of the North Caucasus can rival Ramazan Abdulatipov when it comes to the number of rumors about his resignation since the
Chechen Ousted as Amir of Jaish al-Muhadjireen wal-Ansar Rebel Group in Syria
In April, a sharia court decreed that a range of orders issued by Amir Salakhuddin Shishani (Feyzulla Margoshvili), the long-time leader of the Jaish al-Muhadjireen wal-Ansar (JMA), were in breach
Chechen Ousted as Amir of Jaish al-Muhadjireen wal-Ansar Rebel Group in Syria
In April, a sharia court decreed that a range of orders issued by Amir Salakhuddin Shishani (Feyzulla Margoshvili), the long-time leader of the Jaish al-Muhadjireen wal-Ansar (JMA), were in breach
Divisions Between Caucasus Emirate and Islamic State Militants Have No Impact on the Ground
The Caucasus Emirate (CE) is refusing to exit the political arena of the North Caucasus. After all the well-known amirs of the North Caucasus jamaats pledged allegiance to the Islamic
Divisions Between Caucasus Emirate and Islamic State Militants Have No Impact on the Ground
The Caucasus Emirate (CE) is refusing to exit the political arena of the North Caucasus. After all the well-known amirs of the North Caucasus jamaats pledged allegiance to the Islamic
Kadyrov Plays Down Threat of Islamic State in Chechnya
On June 26, one day after the Russian security services killed Magomed-Ali Aliev and his wife Leila in Nazran, Ingushetia (Topwar.ru, June 25; see EDM, July 1), law enforcement agencies
Kadyrov Plays Down Threat of Islamic State in Chechnya
On June 26, one day after the Russian security services killed Magomed-Ali Aliev and his wife Leila in Nazran, Ingushetia (Topwar.ru, June 25; see EDM, July 1), law enforcement agencies
Russian Counter-Terrorism Operations Return to Ingushetia
After months of relative quiet, there have been unexpected reports in recent weeks of battles with militants in Ingushetia, Russia’s smallest republic. Among other reported incidents, police officers were apparently
Russian Counter-Terrorism Operations Return to Ingushetia
After months of relative quiet, there have been unexpected reports in recent weeks of battles with militants in Ingushetia, Russia’s smallest republic. Among other reported incidents, police officers were apparently
Two North Caucasus Rebel Leaders Face Off in Islamic State–Caucasus Emirate Dispute
Following multiple pledges of allegiance to the Islamic State (IS) by rebel amirs in Chechnya and Dagestan, a new statement, allegedly on behalf of all of the former amirs of
Two North Caucasus Rebel Leaders Face Off in Islamic State–Caucasus Emirate Dispute
Following multiple pledges of allegiance to the Islamic State (IS) by rebel amirs in Chechnya and Dagestan, a new statement, allegedly on behalf of all of the former amirs of
Georgia Arrests Pankisi Gorge Residents Who Allegedly Recruited for Islamic State
Members of the so-called Islamic State (IS) have been quite active in the Pankisi Gorge, one of the most picturesque mountain gorges in Georgia, since the very start of the
Georgia Arrests Pankisi Gorge Residents Who Allegedly Recruited for Islamic State
Members of the so-called Islamic State (IS) have been quite active in the Pankisi Gorge, one of the most picturesque mountain gorges in Georgia, since the very start of the
Popularity of Islamic Sate Soars in Russia and Post-Soviet Space
With more and more former members of the Caucasus Emirate pledging allegiance to the “caliphate” of the Islamic State, the situation in the North Caucasus may destabilize further. What is
Popularity of Islamic Sate Soars in Russia and Post-Soviet Space
With more and more former members of the Caucasus Emirate pledging allegiance to the “caliphate” of the Islamic State, the situation in the North Caucasus may destabilize further. What is
What Caused the Demise of the Caucasus Emirate?
Nearly seven years ago, in the fall of 2007, Islamic militants in the North Caucasus who were unhappy with the ideology of independence for Ichkeria replaced it with an Islamic
What Caused the Demise of the Caucasus Emirate?
Nearly seven years ago, in the fall of 2007, Islamic militants in the North Caucasus who were unhappy with the ideology of independence for Ichkeria replaced it with an Islamic
Moscow College Student Caught Crossing Into Turkey to Join IS
The story of Moscow State University (MGU) student Varvara Karaulova has caused an outcry in Russia. Earlier this month, to the surprise of her parents and friends, the student unexpectedly
Moscow College Student Caught Crossing Into Turkey to Join IS
The story of Moscow State University (MGU) student Varvara Karaulova has caused an outcry in Russia. Earlier this month, to the surprise of her parents and friends, the student unexpectedly
Salafist-Sufi Tensions Threaten Greater Instability in North Caucasus
Muslims in the North Caucasus anxiously watched the incident at a mosque in Ingushetia’s Nasyr-Kort (Nazran) municipality on June 5, when several thousand supporters of the republican mufti, Isa Khamkhoev,
Salafist-Sufi Tensions Threaten Greater Instability in North Caucasus
Muslims in the North Caucasus anxiously watched the incident at a mosque in Ingushetia’s Nasyr-Kort (Nazran) municipality on June 5, when several thousand supporters of the republican mufti, Isa Khamkhoev,
Dagestan Begins to Reverse Its Relatively Tolerant Policy Toward Salafism
After Nadir Abu Khalid (a.k.a. Nadir Medetov), one of the best known radical Salafist preachers in Dagestan and one of the most popular among young people, fled to Syria, it
Dagestan Begins to Reverse Its Relatively Tolerant Policy Toward Salafism
After Nadir Abu Khalid (a.k.a. Nadir Medetov), one of the best known radical Salafist preachers in Dagestan and one of the most popular among young people, fled to Syria, it
Islamic State Causes Turmoil and Divisions Among North Caucasus Militant Leaders
The amir (commander) of the Khasavyurt jamaat, Islam Abu Ibragim (a.k.a. Islam Muradov), recently declared that Muslims in Dagestan should pay a tax to the Islamic State (IS). Ibragim is
Islamic State Causes Turmoil and Divisions Among North Caucasus Militant Leaders
The amir (commander) of the Khasavyurt jamaat, Islam Abu Ibragim (a.k.a. Islam Muradov), recently declared that Muslims in Dagestan should pay a tax to the Islamic State (IS). Ibragim is
Islam Is Seeking a Greater Role in Russia
Since the second half of the 18th century, when Catherine the Great realized that Russia would not be able to Christianize the Muslims in its conquered territories, the Russian government
Islam Is Seeking a Greater Role in Russia
Since the second half of the 18th century, when Catherine the Great realized that Russia would not be able to Christianize the Muslims in its conquered territories, the Russian government
Popular North Caucasian Islamic Preacher Turns Up in the Middle East and Joins Islamic State
One of the most “fashionable” Islamic preachers in the North Caucasus, Nadir Medetov, has unexpectedly surfaced in the ranks of the Islamic State (IS) in the Middle East after being
Popular North Caucasian Islamic Preacher Turns Up in the Middle East and Joins Islamic State
One of the most “fashionable” Islamic preachers in the North Caucasus, Nadir Medetov, has unexpectedly surfaced in the ranks of the Islamic State (IS) in the Middle East after being
Chechens React to Boston Marathon Bombing Verdict
Immediately after Dzhokhar Tsarnaev was arrested for carrying out the deadly bombing of the 2013 Boston Marathon, multiple support groups mushroomed online, particularly on Russian social media. In the two
Chechens React to Boston Marathon Bombing Verdict
Immediately after Dzhokhar Tsarnaev was arrested for carrying out the deadly bombing of the 2013 Boston Marathon, multiple support groups mushroomed online, particularly on Russian social media. In the two
North Caucasus Builds More and Bigger Mosques
After the demise of the Soviet state with its atheist policies, a massive process of rebuilding old and building new mosques started across the North Caucasus. Today, Chechnya has nearly
North Caucasus Builds More and Bigger Mosques
After the demise of the Soviet state with its atheist policies, a massive process of rebuilding old and building new mosques started across the North Caucasus. Today, Chechnya has nearly
Counter-Terrorism Operations Take Place in Dagestan Virtually Non-Stop
Dagestan is the only part of the North Caucasus today that is experiencing ceaseless counter-terrorism operations (KTO). The security services announce KTOs in various areas of the republic, and these
Counter-Terrorism Operations Take Place in Dagestan Virtually Non-Stop
Dagestan is the only part of the North Caucasus today that is experiencing ceaseless counter-terrorism operations (KTO). The security services announce KTOs in various areas of the republic, and these
Will Abu Usman Gimrinsky Become the Dagestani Insurgency’s New Amir?
For the first time since the death of the Caucasus Emirate’s last leader, Abu Muhammad (Aliaskhab Kebekov), near the city of Buinaksk, on April 19 (Vdagestan.com, April 20), one of
Will Abu Usman Gimrinsky Become the Dagestani Insurgency’s New Amir?
For the first time since the death of the Caucasus Emirate’s last leader, Abu Muhammad (Aliaskhab Kebekov), near the city of Buinaksk, on April 19 (Vdagestan.com, April 20), one of
Chechen Involvement in Middle East Fighting a Growing Concern for Russian and European Governments
After each death of a Chechen in Syria or Iraq, the involvement of Chechens in Middle Eastern conflicts becomes a hot topic of discussion in the Russian media. The recent
Chechen Involvement in Middle East Fighting a Growing Concern for Russian and European Governments
After each death of a Chechen in Syria or Iraq, the involvement of Chechens in Middle Eastern conflicts becomes a hot topic of discussion in the Russian media. The recent
Who Is Training Dagestan’s Future Islamic Scholars?
Dagestan is a special region of Russia in that it is an outpost of Islamic radicalism. Islamic institutions, madrasas and maktabs (Islamic elementary schools in mosques) exist in large numbers
Who Is Training Dagestan’s Future Islamic Scholars?
Dagestan is a special region of Russia in that it is an outpost of Islamic radicalism. Islamic institutions, madrasas and maktabs (Islamic elementary schools in mosques) exist in large numbers
Dagestani Militants Experience Series of Setbacks
After Ramzan Kadyrov’s statements authorizing Chechen police to shoot to kill police officers from outside Chechnya who appear there without notifying the republican authorities (see EDM, April 27), the governor
Dagestani Militants Experience Series of Setbacks
After Ramzan Kadyrov’s statements authorizing Chechen police to shoot to kill police officers from outside Chechnya who appear there without notifying the republican authorities (see EDM, April 27), the governor
Why Kadyrov Has Fought With Bastrykin
Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov has become one of Russia’s most quoted persons for the second time since last December. After the incursion into Grozny by a small group of militants
Why Kadyrov Has Fought With Bastrykin
Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov has become one of Russia’s most quoted persons for the second time since last December. After the incursion into Grozny by a small group of militants
Caucasus Emirate Amir Killed in Dagestan
Observers who have followed the evolution of Russia’s campaign against the Islamic armed resistance in the North Caucasus over the past 16 years probably noticed that Moscow has no strategy
Caucasus Emirate Amir Killed in Dagestan
Observers who have followed the evolution of Russia’s campaign against the Islamic armed resistance in the North Caucasus over the past 16 years probably noticed that Moscow has no strategy
Fight Between Authorities and Islamist Militants Intensifies in Kabardino-Balkaria
Against the backdrop of the simmering conflict in Kabardino-Balkaria, President Vladimir Putin replaced the interior minister of the republic, Sergei Vasiliev, with a police major-general, Igor Romashkin. Vasiliev had been
Fight Between Authorities and Islamist Militants Intensifies in Kabardino-Balkaria
Against the backdrop of the simmering conflict in Kabardino-Balkaria, President Vladimir Putin replaced the interior minister of the republic, Sergei Vasiliev, with a police major-general, Igor Romashkin. Vasiliev had been
Allure of Islamic State’s Media Machine Attracts New Generation of Chechen Recruits
Emotions ran high in the Chechen community once again with the news that two school children from Pankisi, Georgia, went to Syria to fight, presumably alongside the Islamic State organization
Allure of Islamic State’s Media Machine Attracts New Generation of Chechen Recruits
Emotions ran high in the Chechen community once again with the news that two school children from Pankisi, Georgia, went to Syria to fight, presumably alongside the Islamic State organization
Tide of Support for Islamic State in the North Caucasus Causes Alarm in Moscow
Russia watchers can hardly fail to notice that Moscow often reacts to events in the North Caucasus after a significant time lag. Several amirs of the Caucasus Emirate pledged allegiance
Tide of Support for Islamic State in the North Caucasus Causes Alarm in Moscow
Russia watchers can hardly fail to notice that Moscow often reacts to events in the North Caucasus after a significant time lag. Several amirs of the Caucasus Emirate pledged allegiance
Are Russian Military Exercises in the North Caucasus a Signal to Azerbaijan and Georgia?
Russian defense and interior ministry troops have each staged large-scale military exercises, one after another. Military drills take place across Russia practically year-round, but what was interesting about a recent
Are Russian Military Exercises in the North Caucasus a Signal to Azerbaijan and Georgia?
Russian defense and interior ministry troops have each staged large-scale military exercises, one after another. Military drills take place across Russia practically year-round, but what was interesting about a recent
Abuse of Chechens and Ingush in Russian Prisons Creates Legions of Enemies
Sixteen years have passed since the start of the second Russian-Chechen war, but Chechen and Ingush detainees from various parts of the Russian Federation continue to cry out for help.
Abuse of Chechens and Ingush in Russian Prisons Creates Legions of Enemies
Sixteen years have passed since the start of the second Russian-Chechen war, but Chechen and Ingush detainees from various parts of the Russian Federation continue to cry out for help.
Pro–Islamic State Militants Carry out Attacks in Dagestan
North Caucasian militants who recently pledged allegiance to Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi and his so-called Islamic State (see EDM, January 8) have experienced their first losses. It happened during a counter-terrorist
Pro–Islamic State Militants Carry out Attacks in Dagestan
North Caucasian militants who recently pledged allegiance to Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi and his so-called Islamic State (see EDM, January 8) have experienced their first losses. It happened during a counter-terrorist
Chechen Militants Fighting in Middle East Remain Split in Their Loyalties
Many Chechen supporters of the Islamic State have flocked to the Middle East. And as their numbers and fervency have grown, this has placed at a disadvantage other Chechen commanders
Chechen Militants Fighting in Middle East Remain Split in Their Loyalties
Many Chechen supporters of the Islamic State have flocked to the Middle East. And as their numbers and fervency have grown, this has placed at a disadvantage other Chechen commanders
Kadyrov Takes Chechen Special Forces Training to New Heights
Chechen special services operating under the auspices of Ramzan Kadyrov and trained by an ex-major of the Russian security services’ Alpha group, Daniil Martynov, keep expanding their activities to new
Kadyrov Takes Chechen Special Forces Training to New Heights
Chechen special services operating under the auspices of Ramzan Kadyrov and trained by an ex-major of the Russian security services’ Alpha group, Daniil Martynov, keep expanding their activities to new
Security Operation in Dagestan Apparently Kills Rebels and Bystanders Alike
During the past 16 years of battling militants in the North Caucasus, Russia’s security services and police have generally avoided taking prisoners among the insurgents. This tendency was recently displayed
Security Operation in Dagestan Apparently Kills Rebels and Bystanders Alike
During the past 16 years of battling militants in the North Caucasus, Russia’s security services and police have generally avoided taking prisoners among the insurgents. This tendency was recently displayed
Moscow Begins to Grasp the Threat Posed by Islamic State
As the militants of the armed Islamic resistance in the North Caucasus began taking oaths of allegiance to the so-called Islamic State (see EDM, January 30), the Russian authorities began
Moscow Begins to Grasp the Threat Posed by Islamic State
As the militants of the armed Islamic resistance in the North Caucasus began taking oaths of allegiance to the so-called Islamic State (see EDM, January 30), the Russian authorities began
Kadyrov’s Future Hangs in the Balance After Nemtsov Murder
Chechen involvement in the murder of the prominent Russian opposition leader Boris Nemtsov, on February 27, was considered one of the most probable versions of what happened from the outset
Kadyrov’s Future Hangs in the Balance After Nemtsov Murder
Chechen involvement in the murder of the prominent Russian opposition leader Boris Nemtsov, on February 27, was considered one of the most probable versions of what happened from the outset
Insurgent Attacks in Dagestan Increase Despite Government Counter-Insurgency Operations
Judging by the actions of the militants in Dagestan in February and the beginning of March 2015, a major regrouping in the ranks of the Dagestani jamaat has been completed.
Insurgent Attacks in Dagestan Increase Despite Government Counter-Insurgency Operations
Judging by the actions of the militants in Dagestan in February and the beginning of March 2015, a major regrouping in the ranks of the Dagestani jamaat has been completed.
Increased Insurgent Activity Reported in Chechnya
The head of the Russian presidential administration, Sergei Ivanov, was forced recently to admit that the situation in some areas of the North Caucasus remains particularly bad in terms of
Increased Insurgent Activity Reported in Chechnya
The head of the Russian presidential administration, Sergei Ivanov, was forced recently to admit that the situation in some areas of the North Caucasus remains particularly bad in terms of
Another Chechen Émigré Murdered in Turkey
Istanbul has experienced another series of murders of Chechens who fled to Turkey from persecution back home during the second Russian-Chechen war. After the start of that war in the
Another Chechen Émigré Murdered in Turkey
Istanbul has experienced another series of murders of Chechens who fled to Turkey from persecution back home during the second Russian-Chechen war. After the start of that war in the
Moscow Remains Fertile Recruiting Ground for Aspiring Jihadists
From time to time, Russia is forced to reveal information about the real situation involving the jihadist movement in the Russian capital. Authorities are not keen on providing figures on
Moscow Remains Fertile Recruiting Ground for Aspiring Jihadists
From time to time, Russia is forced to reveal information about the real situation involving the jihadist movement in the Russian capital. Authorities are not keen on providing figures on
Russian Government Tries to Bolster Cossack Groups in the North Caucasus
After losing the support of ethnic Russians who were once abundantly present in the republics of the North Caucasus (Chechnya, Ingushetia, Dagestan, Kabardino-Balkaria and Karachaevo-Cherkessia), Moscow is constantly looking for
Russian Government Tries to Bolster Cossack Groups in the North Caucasus
After losing the support of ethnic Russians who were once abundantly present in the republics of the North Caucasus (Chechnya, Ingushetia, Dagestan, Kabardino-Balkaria and Karachaevo-Cherkessia), Moscow is constantly looking for
FSB Director Says Islamic State fighters Include 1,700 Russian Citizens
As elements of the Islamic State (IS) infiltrate the territory of the North Caucasus, the looming question is whether the caliphate will have an actual impact on the situation in
FSB Director Says Islamic State fighters Include 1,700 Russian Citizens
As elements of the Islamic State (IS) infiltrate the territory of the North Caucasus, the looming question is whether the caliphate will have an actual impact on the situation in
Caucasus Emirate Loyalist Picked as New Militant Leader in Dagestan
Sheikh Ali Abu-Muhammad has been the amir (leader) of the Caucasus Emirate (CE) since March 2014 (Kavkazsky Uzel, December 28, 2014). Now, Abu-Muhammad, who is number 1,642 on the Russian
Caucasus Emirate Loyalist Picked as New Militant Leader in Dagestan
Sheikh Ali Abu-Muhammad has been the amir (leader) of the Caucasus Emirate (CE) since March 2014 (Kavkazsky Uzel, December 28, 2014). Now, Abu-Muhammad, who is number 1,642 on the Russian
Caucasus Emirate and Islamic State Split Slows Militant Activities in North Caucasus
Since last November, the commanders of the North Caucasus jamaats, one after another, have pledged allegiance to the Islamic State and its leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi (see EDM, January 16).
Caucasus Emirate and Islamic State Split Slows Militant Activities in North Caucasus
Since last November, the commanders of the North Caucasus jamaats, one after another, have pledged allegiance to the Islamic State and its leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi (see EDM, January 16).
Fate of Ingush Opposition Leader Sparks Struggle Between Kadyrov and Yevkurov
Shortly after the governor of Ingushetia, Yunus-bek Yevkurov, said he intended to do away with everyone connected to the armed opposition in the republic (Kavkasia.net, December 30, 2014), it started
Fate of Ingush Opposition Leader Sparks Struggle Between Kadyrov and Yevkurov
Shortly after the governor of Ingushetia, Yunus-bek Yevkurov, said he intended to do away with everyone connected to the armed opposition in the republic (Kavkasia.net, December 30, 2014), it started
Ichkerian Commander Isa Munaev Killed in Eastern Ukraine
The death of one of the most famous Ichkerian generals from the two wars in Chechnya, Isa Munaev on February 1, again drew public attention to the involvement of Chechens
Ichkerian Commander Isa Munaev Killed in Eastern Ukraine
The death of one of the most famous Ichkerian generals from the two wars in Chechnya, Isa Munaev on February 1, again drew public attention to the involvement of Chechens
Chechen Leader Once Again Demonstrates His Unique Role in Putin’s Russia
According to experts, for a long time only two or three regional politicians in Russia could play an important role at the federal level—two of them being the mayor of
Chechen Leader Once Again Demonstrates His Unique Role in Putin’s Russia
According to experts, for a long time only two or three regional politicians in Russia could play an important role at the federal level—two of them being the mayor of
North Caucasus Militants Split Between Caucasus Emirate and Islamic State, as Radical Islam Gains Influence in Region
In the run-up to the fifth anniversary of the founding the North Caucasus Federal District, Russia’s Ministry of Interior officially reported the results of 2014. It said the law enforcement
North Caucasus Militants Split Between Caucasus Emirate and Islamic State, as Radical Islam Gains Influence in Region
In the run-up to the fifth anniversary of the founding the North Caucasus Federal District, Russia’s Ministry of Interior officially reported the results of 2014. It said the law enforcement
Moscow Becomes Increasingly Worried About Russian Nationals Fighting With Islamic State
Russia has finally become concerned about its nationals fighting in Syria against its ally, Bashar al-Assad, and has begun targeting fighters returning from abroad. The authorities’ actions sometimes take an
Moscow Becomes Increasingly Worried About Russian Nationals Fighting With Islamic State
Russia has finally become concerned about its nationals fighting in Syria against its ally, Bashar al-Assad, and has begun targeting fighters returning from abroad. The authorities’ actions sometimes take an
Western Sanctions on Russia to Have Delayed Impact on North Caucasus
President Barack Obama said in his State of the Union message (delivered before Congress on January 20) that US economic sanctions have had a devastating impact on the Russian economy
Western Sanctions on Russia to Have Delayed Impact on North Caucasus
President Barack Obama said in his State of the Union message (delivered before Congress on January 20) that US economic sanctions have had a devastating impact on the Russian economy
Chechens in Europe Subjected to Ethnic Profiling After Paris Attacks
Chechens who emigrated to Europe are not in an enviable situation today, as any terrorist threat around the world invariably prompts the security services to investigate them closely. France’s security
Chechens in Europe Subjected to Ethnic Profiling After Paris Attacks
Chechens who emigrated to Europe are not in an enviable situation today, as any terrorist threat around the world invariably prompts the security services to investigate them closely. France’s security
Rift Between Supporters of Caucasus Emirate and IS Deepens in North Caucasus
The most talked about subject in Kabardino-Balkaria so far in 2015 is the prison sentences passed handed down to the militants who participated in the insurrection in the republican capital
Rift Between Supporters of Caucasus Emirate and IS Deepens in North Caucasus
The most talked about subject in Kabardino-Balkaria so far in 2015 is the prison sentences passed handed down to the militants who participated in the insurrection in the republican capital
Will the Islamic State Overplay Its Hand in the North Caucasus?
It was an uneasy start to 2015 in the North Caucasus. On the very first day of the year, government forces clashed with militants in Mekkensky village, located in the
Will the Islamic State Overplay Its Hand in the North Caucasus?
It was an uneasy start to 2015 in the North Caucasus. On the very first day of the year, government forces clashed with militants in Mekkensky village, located in the
The North Caucasus in 2014: The Year in Review
In the past year, significant changes took place in the armed Islamic resistance in the North Caucasus. The Chechen factor proved to be a problem that cut across international boundaries
The North Caucasus in 2014: The Year in Review
In the past year, significant changes took place in the armed Islamic resistance in the North Caucasus. The Chechen factor proved to be a problem that cut across international boundaries
The Islamic State Is Set to Replace the Caucasus Emirate in the North Caucasus
Analysts have believed that the Islamic State (IS) organization would dispatch people to the North Caucasus and include the region in its sphere of influence. The reality appears to be
The Islamic State Is Set to Replace the Caucasus Emirate in the North Caucasus
Analysts have believed that the Islamic State (IS) organization would dispatch people to the North Caucasus and include the region in its sphere of influence. The reality appears to be
Dagestani Militants Suffer Losses Amid Intensified Russian Security Efforts
The insurgency in Dagestan was plagued by a series of failures last week. On December 9, the Russian security services killed the leader of the rebels’ Makhachkala sector, 25-year-old Emir
Dagestani Militants Suffer Losses Amid Intensified Russian Security Efforts
The insurgency in Dagestan was plagued by a series of failures last week. On December 9, the Russian security services killed the leader of the rebels’ Makhachkala sector, 25-year-old Emir
Rebel Attack on Grozny May Spur Attacks in Other Parts of the North Caucasus
The Chechen militant assault on Grozny on December 4 (TASS, December 5) is bound to have an impact on the neighboring republics. What the impact will be and how the
Rebel Attack on Grozny May Spur Attacks in Other Parts of the North Caucasus
The Chechen militant assault on Grozny on December 4 (TASS, December 5) is bound to have an impact on the neighboring republics. What the impact will be and how the
Was the December 4 Rebel Attack in Grozny Aimed at Tarnishing the Images of Putin and Kadyrov?
The attack by militants in Grozny on December 4 was surprisingly large in scale. The last time Chechen militants launched such a large-scale offensive in Grozny was in October 2010,
Was the December 4 Rebel Attack in Grozny Aimed at Tarnishing the Images of Putin and Kadyrov?
The attack by militants in Grozny on December 4 was surprisingly large in scale. The last time Chechen militants launched such a large-scale offensive in Grozny was in October 2010,
Georgian Chechens Increasingly Play Key Roles in Both Islamic State and Its Rivals
After the followers of Sheikh Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi proclaimed their allegiance to the Islamic State (IS) organization (sedmitza.ru, June 30), some of the rebel forces opposed to Syrian President Bashar
Georgian Chechens Increasingly Play Key Roles in Both Islamic State and Its Rivals
After the followers of Sheikh Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi proclaimed their allegiance to the Islamic State (IS) organization (sedmitza.ru, June 30), some of the rebel forces opposed to Syrian President Bashar
Split in the Caucasus Emirate, or an FSB Provocation?
Suleiman Zailanabidov, one of the former emirs of the so-called Aukhov jamaat in Dagestan, took an oath of allegiance to Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, the leader of the Islamic State organization
Split in the Caucasus Emirate, or an FSB Provocation?
Suleiman Zailanabidov, one of the former emirs of the so-called Aukhov jamaat in Dagestan, took an oath of allegiance to Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, the leader of the Islamic State organization
Why Do Jamaat Leaders Die so Often in North Caucasus Special Operations?
Rarely a week passes in Dagestan without the authorities launching a new special operation against militants. Some weeks, several special operations take place across the republic. In most instances, these
Why Do Jamaat Leaders Die so Often in North Caucasus Special Operations?
Rarely a week passes in Dagestan without the authorities launching a new special operation against militants. Some weeks, several special operations take place across the republic. In most instances, these
Another Clash Reported Between Security Forces and Rebels in Chechnya
As he has done for years, Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov was the first to announce the latest government operation against rebel militants in Chechnya. Kadyrov stated on his personal Instagram
Another Clash Reported Between Security Forces and Rebels in Chechnya
As he has done for years, Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov was the first to announce the latest government operation against rebel militants in Chechnya. Kadyrov stated on his personal Instagram
Conflicts Involving North Caucasians Erupt Inside Russian Army
The tradition of North Caucasus mountaineers serving in the Russian army goes back 150 years. In the 1870s, the Russian Empire tried to tie the mountaineers to the Russian system
Conflicts Involving North Caucasians Erupt Inside Russian Army
The tradition of North Caucasus mountaineers serving in the Russian army goes back 150 years. In the 1870s, the Russian Empire tried to tie the mountaineers to the Russian system
Dagestan’s Insurgency Carries out an Orderly Reorganization
After the recent death of another leader of Dagestan’s Aukhov jamaat, the press service of the Dagestani Liberation Front posted a video recording of the address of the emir of
Dagestan’s Insurgency Carries out an Orderly Reorganization
After the recent death of another leader of Dagestan’s Aukhov jamaat, the press service of the Dagestani Liberation Front posted a video recording of the address of the emir of
Qatari Sheikh Becomes Tool for Kremlin in Struggle Against North Caucasus Militants
Moscow has been quite benevolent toward the International Union of Muslim Scholars, headed by its general secretary, Dr. Ali Muhiddin al-Qaradaghi. This international, non-governmental pan-Islamic organization was established in London
Qatari Sheikh Becomes Tool for Kremlin in Struggle Against North Caucasus Militants
Moscow has been quite benevolent toward the International Union of Muslim Scholars, headed by its general secretary, Dr. Ali Muhiddin al-Qaradaghi. This international, non-governmental pan-Islamic organization was established in London
Two Battalions of Chechens Now Fighting the Russians in Ukraine
Reading the Ukrainian media earlier this year gave one the impression that Ukraine was fighting not Russia, but Chechnya (vesti.ru, May 28). Few doubted that Chechens were fighting on the
Two Battalions of Chechens Now Fighting the Russians in Ukraine
Reading the Ukrainian media earlier this year gave one the impression that Ukraine was fighting not Russia, but Chechnya (vesti.ru, May 28). Few doubted that Chechens were fighting on the
Is Russia Facing the Growing Possibility of Muslim Revolt?
At times it appears as if Russia’s treatment of its Muslims is completely devoid of prior experience or historical lessons learned. Otherwise, it is difficult to explain why the Russian
Is Russia Facing the Growing Possibility of Muslim Revolt?
At times it appears as if Russia’s treatment of its Muslims is completely devoid of prior experience or historical lessons learned. Otherwise, it is difficult to explain why the Russian
Moscow Suddenly Shows Concern About the Growing Influence in Russia of Islamic State
The recent meeting between US Secretary of State John Kerry and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in Paris, on October 15, concluded on a positive note, according to the participants
Moscow Suddenly Shows Concern About the Growing Influence in Russia of Islamic State
The recent meeting between US Secretary of State John Kerry and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in Paris, on October 15, concluded on a positive note, according to the participants
Insurgency Reemerges in Kabardino-Balkaria
Nine years since the militants of Shamil Basaev and Anzor Astemirov ransacked Nalchik, the capital of Kabardino-Balkaria (RIA Novosti, September 7, 2013), on October 13, 2005, this republic remains a
Insurgency Reemerges in Kabardino-Balkaria
Nine years since the militants of Shamil Basaev and Anzor Astemirov ransacked Nalchik, the capital of Kabardino-Balkaria (RIA Novosti, September 7, 2013), on October 13, 2005, this republic remains a
Number of Disillusioned North Caucasian Militants Returning From Syria Increases
International observers have paid much attention to the fact that many foreigners are fighting against the Syrian regime of Bashar al-Assad. Tunisia holds first place among the countries of Asia
Number of Disillusioned North Caucasian Militants Returning From Syria Increases
International observers have paid much attention to the fact that many foreigners are fighting against the Syrian regime of Bashar al-Assad. Tunisia holds first place among the countries of Asia
Grozny Suicide Bombing: A ‘Lone Wolf’ or Signs of a New Militant Group Operating in Chechnya?
The suicide bombing in the capital of Chechnya (RIA Novosti, October 5) carried out by 19-year-old Apti Mudarov (vesti.ru, October 5) during Grozny’s City Day celebrations on October 5 (Kommersant,
Grozny Suicide Bombing: A ‘Lone Wolf’ or Signs of a New Militant Group Operating in Chechnya?
The suicide bombing in the capital of Chechnya (RIA Novosti, October 5) carried out by 19-year-old Apti Mudarov (vesti.ru, October 5) during Grozny’s City Day celebrations on October 5 (Kommersant,
The Epicenter of the Insurgency—A Net Assessment of the Situation in the Northeast Caucasus Since the Start of 2014
The ongoing transformation of the armed Islamic opposition in the North Caucasus is one sign of the deepening crisis in the region. The transformation is taking place against the backdrop
The Epicenter of the Insurgency—A Net Assessment of the Situation in the Northeast Caucasus Since the Start of 2014
The ongoing transformation of the armed Islamic opposition in the North Caucasus is one sign of the deepening crisis in the region. The transformation is taking place against the backdrop
The Conflict in Syria and Iraq Spills Over Into Europe, With Chechen Participation
Yazidis, an Iraqi minority, have started arriving as refugees in Europe, where they encounter people who are supposedly causing their problems back at home, including the Chechens. A conflict between
The Conflict in Syria and Iraq Spills Over Into Europe, With Chechen Participation
Yazidis, an Iraqi minority, have started arriving as refugees in Europe, where they encounter people who are supposedly causing their problems back at home, including the Chechens. A conflict between
BRIEFS
REAPPEARANCE OF ‘SLAIN’ DAGESTANI MILITANT DISPROVES FSB CLAIMS Mairbek Vatchagaev Practically every month, Moscow boastfully announces that it has killed a leader of one of the territorial branches of the
Kremlin Targets Crimean Muslims as Part of Crimea Crackdown
Since Russia occupied Crimea with its strategically important naval port and the Russian military base in Sevastopol this past February (UNIAN, February 27), life there has become increasingly dangerous for
Kremlin Targets Crimean Muslims as Part of Crimea Crackdown
Since Russia occupied Crimea with its strategically important naval port and the Russian military base in Sevastopol this past February (UNIAN, February 27), life there has become increasingly dangerous for
Reappearance of ‘Slain’ Dagestani Militant Disproves FSB Claims
Practically every month, Moscow boastfully announces it has killed a leader of one of the territorial branches of the Islamic underground armed resistance. However, the statistics regularly provided by Russian
Reappearance of ‘Slain’ Dagestani Militant Disproves FSB Claims
Practically every month, Moscow boastfully announces it has killed a leader of one of the territorial branches of the Islamic underground armed resistance. However, the statistics regularly provided by Russian
Planned Road From Dagestan to Georgia—Road of Friendship, or of War?
Someone looking at a map of the Caucasus would be surprised to see that only three transportation links cut across the Main Caucasus Ridge connecting the North and South Caucasus.
Planned Road From Dagestan to Georgia—Road of Friendship, or of War?
Someone looking at a map of the Caucasus would be surprised to see that only three transportation links cut across the Main Caucasus Ridge connecting the North and South Caucasus.
September 2014 Briefs
ABU MUHAMMAD NAMED NEW DAGESTANI AMIR OF CAUCASUS EMIRATE Mairbek Vatchagaev Earlier this year Abu Muhammad, who became the new head of the Caucasus Emirate in the North Caucasus in
Russian Military Losses in the North Caucasus Approach Soviet Losses in Afghanistan
The Khankala military base near Grozny recently hosted a gathering celebrating the 15th anniversary of the establishment of the Joint Group of Forces in the North Caucasus. Among those who
Russian Military Losses in the North Caucasus Approach Soviet Losses in Afghanistan
The Khankala military base near Grozny recently hosted a gathering celebrating the 15th anniversary of the establishment of the Joint Group of Forces in the North Caucasus. Among those who
BRIEFS
MODI GOVERNMENT REVEALS NEW INITIATIVES AGAINST THE NAXALITE INSURGENCY Kathryn Basinsky While Narendra Modi, India’s new prime minister, has been in office a little over 100 days, a number of
Kadyov Succeeds in Pressuring Moscow to Renew the Military Draft in Chechnya
After many years of Chechen government appeals, Russia’s Ministry of Defense finally agreed to start drafting Chechen conscripts into the ranks of the Russian armed forces (vedomosti.ru, September 19). This
Kadyrov Succeeds in Pressuring Moscow to Renew the Military Draft in Chechnya
After many years of Chechen government appeals, Russia’s Ministry of Defense finally agreed to start drafting Chechen conscripts into the ranks of the Russian armed forces (vedomosti.ru, September 19). This
Chechen Fighters Make Waves in Syria
Chechens have been quite active in the ranks of the armed opposition to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad over the past two to three years. Chechens have formed several groups that
Chechen Fighters Make Waves in Syria
Chechens have been quite active in the ranks of the armed opposition to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad over the past two to three years. Chechens have formed several groups that
Under Two Flags: Chechen Fighters in Eastern Ukraine
Persistent rumors have existed for some time about the involvement of Chechens in pro-Russian military groups fighting in eastern Ukraine (see EDM, July 18). A significant portion of the information
Under Two Flags: Chechen Fighters in Eastern Ukraine
Persistent rumors have existed for some time about the involvement of Chechens in pro-Russian military groups fighting in eastern Ukraine (see EDM, July 18). A significant portion of the information
The North Caucasus Insurgency: One Year Without Doku Umarov
The armed resistance in the North Caucasus is transforming and adapting to the new conditions under the Caucasus Emirate’s new emir. September 7 marked exactly one year since the death
The North Caucasus Insurgency: One Year Without Doku Umarov
The armed resistance in the North Caucasus is transforming and adapting to the new conditions under the Caucasus Emirate’s new emir. September 7 marked exactly one year since the death
Russia Is Seriously Concerned About Threat Posed by Islamic State
Russian observers reacted quite strongly to an Internet video released by the Islamic State, the group formerly known as the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) that is operating
Russia Is Seriously Concerned About Threat Posed by Islamic State
Russian observers reacted quite strongly to an Internet video released by the Islamic State, the group formerly known as the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) that is operating
Dagestan Remains the Epicenter of the North Caucasus Insurgency
August 2014 turned out to be an ordinary month for the North Caucasus as there was no change in the fighting between the government and the insurgency. The insurgents staged
Dagestan Remains the Epicenter of the North Caucasus Insurgency
August 2014 turned out to be an ordinary month for the North Caucasus as there was no change in the fighting between the government and the insurgency. The insurgents staged
Recruits From Chechnya and Central Asia Bolster Ranks of Islamic State
The proclamation of the Islamic State on the territory under the control of Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi’s armed groups in Syria and Iraq illuminates the degree of radicalization of young Muslims
Recruits From Chechnya and Central Asia Bolster Ranks of Islamic State
The proclamation of the Islamic State on the territory under the control of Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi’s armed groups in Syria and Iraq illuminates the degree of radicalization of young Muslims
Russian Leadership Still Thinks It Can Defeat North Caucasus Insurgency by Building Ski Resorts
Federal Security Service (FSB) Director Alexander Bortnikov, who is also chairman of the Russian National Antiterrorist Committee (NAK) and has chaired the Council of Heads of Security Agencies of the
Russian Leadership Still Thinks It Can Defeat North Caucasus Insurgency by Building Ski Resorts
Federal Security Service (FSB) Director Alexander Bortnikov, who is also chairman of the Russian National Antiterrorist Committee (NAK) and has chaired the Council of Heads of Security Agencies of the
Violence in Dagestan Shows No Sign of Diminishing
With the approach of the 15th anniversary of the Islamic militants’ incursion into Dagestan in 1999, it appears that the militants have only grown stronger since then, and their activities
Violence in Dagestan Shows No Sign of Diminishing
With the approach of the 15th anniversary of the Islamic militants’ incursion into Dagestan in 1999, it appears that the militants have only grown stronger since then, and their activities
Rebels in Chechnya Regroup in Rare Meeting of Field Commanders
A high level of secrecy was the defining feature of the Chechen militants under the command of Doku Umarov. Even news of the split within the Chechen insurgency’s ranks was
Rebels in Chechnya Regroup in Rare Meeting of Field Commanders
A high level of secrecy was the defining feature of the Chechen militants under the command of Doku Umarov. Even news of the split within the Chechen insurgency’s ranks was
Journalist and Rights Activist Timur Kuashev Killed in Kabardino-Balkaria
Several hundred young people attended the funeral of their friend and colleague Timur Kuashev, who was found dead under strange circumstances on the outskirts of Nalchik, the capital of Kabardino-Balkaria,
Journalist and Rights Activist Timur Kuashev Killed in Kabardino-Balkaria
Several hundred young people attended the funeral of their friend and colleague Timur Kuashev, who was found dead under strange circumstances on the outskirts of Nalchik, the capital of Kabardino-Balkaria,
Is Moscow Rethinking Its Policy of Withholding the Bodies of Slain North Caucasus Militants?
The body of Anzor Astemirov, one of the best known leaders of the Kabardino-Balkarian armed resistance, who was killed in 2010, was handed over to his relatives for burial recently,
Is Moscow Rethinking Its Policy of Withholding the Bodies of Slain North Caucasus Militants?
The body of Anzor Astemirov, one of the best known leaders of the Kabardino-Balkarian armed resistance, who was killed in 2010, was handed over to his relatives for burial recently,
Ingushetia’s Yevkurov Appears to Back Blood Revenge Against Militants’ Relatives
One of the favorite activities of the governors of the North Caucasian republics is to frequently count the number of rebels in their respective republics. Every year they lower the
Ingushetia’s Yevkurov Appears to Back Blood Revenge Against Militants’ Relatives
One of the favorite activities of the governors of the North Caucasian republics is to frequently count the number of rebels in their respective republics. Every year they lower the
The Crimean Wolf in the Steppes of Syria
Analysts have suspected the involvement of Crimean Tatars in the Syrian civil war since 2012. These suspicions were confirmed in 2013. Early that year, the website of North Caucasian jihadists
Are Russian Authorities Covertly Forcing North Caucasians Out of Stavropol?
The Federal Security Service (FSB) this week described the latest killing of a person from Dagestan in its usual manner. According to an official report, a man fired two shots
Are Russian Authorities Covertly Forcing North Caucasians Out of Stavropol?
The Federal Security Service (FSB) this week described the latest killing of a person from Dagestan in its usual manner. According to an official report, a man fired two shots
Post-Mortem Photograph and Video of Doku Umarov Emerge
Chechen president Ramzan Kadyrov posted a photograph of the dead leader of the North Caucasus insurgency, Doku Umarov, on his personal Instagram page, while the militants provided their official version
Post-Mortem Photograph and Video of Doku Umarov Emerge
Chechen president Ramzan Kadyrov posted a photograph of the dead leader of the North Caucasus insurgency, Doku Umarov, on his personal Instagram page, while the militants provided their official version
Chechen Experience in Urban Combat Could Be of Vital Use to Ukraine
Russia is facing a new problem and this concerns the new front that the Chechens have launched outside the North Caucasus. As a result of the brutal suppression of the
Chechen Experience in Urban Combat Could Be of Vital Use to Ukraine
Russia is facing a new problem and this concerns the new front that the Chechens have launched outside the North Caucasus. As a result of the brutal suppression of the
Kadyrov Officials Torn Between Commemorating 1944 Deportations and Pleasing Moscow
In Chechnya, yet another problem has been added to the set of existing ones. The Memorial human rights center has designated Ruslan Kutaev as a political prisoner on April 19
Kadyrov Officials Torn Between Commemorating 1944 Deportations and Pleasing Moscow
In Chechnya, yet another problem has been added to the set of existing ones. The Memorial human rights center has designated Ruslan Kutaev as a political prisoner on April 19
Authorities in Dagestan Fail to Achieve Tangible Results in Combatting Extremism
For the past 15 years, bloodshed has been commonplace in the North Caucasus and illegal actions by the regional authorities have not been considered criminal. And during that whole period,
New Caucasus Emirate Leader Takes Hard Line Stance Against Suicide Bombing
Last month, the newly appointed leader of the Caucasus Emirate, Abu Muhammad, explained why Muslims should not support the head of the al-Qaeda breakaway group—the Islamic State of Iraq and
Authorities in Dagestan Fail to Achieve Tangible Results in Combatting Extremism
For the past 15 years, bloodshed has been commonplace in the North Caucasus and illegal actions by the regional authorities have not been considered criminal. And during that whole period,
Statement by New Leader of Caucasus Emirate Creates Rift Among Chechen Groups Operating in Syria
From the start of the second Russian-Chechen war in 1999, everybody has been trying to find connections between the Chechens and al-Qaeda (rg.ru, May 24, 2000). That effort suited Moscow,
Impact of Sanctions Likely Causes Moscow to Halt North Caucasus Tourism Projects
Moscow’s much-advertised grand project in the North Caucasus since 2010, the creation of a ski tourism industry, has ceased to exist. In a speech to the Federation Council on June
New Caucasus Emirate Leader Takes Hard Line Stance Against Suicide Bombing
Last month, the newly appointed leader of the Caucasus Emirate, Abu Muhammad, explained why Muslims should not support the head of the al-Qaeda breakaway group—the Islamic State of Iraq and
Statement by New Leader of Caucasus Emirate Creates Rift Among Chechen Groups Operating in Syria
From the start of the second Russian-Chechen war in 1999, everybody has been trying to find connections between the Chechens and al-Qaeda (rg.ru, May 24, 2000). That effort suited Moscow,
Impact of Sanctions Likely Causes Moscow to Halt North Caucasus Tourism Projects
Moscow’s much-advertised grand project in the North Caucasus since 2010, the creation of a ski tourism industry, has ceased to exist. In a speech to the Federation Council on June
Russian Security Services Begin to Terrorize Crimean Tatar Islamic Schools
Since Russia annexed the Crimean peninsula, it has been clear that a conflict between Moscow and the Crimean Tatars was only a matter of time. Arguably, the Crimean Tatars, with
FSB Veterans Unhappy about New Special Forces Training Center in Chechnya
Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov stated recently that a new training center for special forces will be built on the territory of the Chechen Republic. Russian forces are expected to use
FSB Veterans Unhappy about New Special Forces Training Center in Chechnya
Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov stated recently that a new training center for special forces will be built on the territory of the Chechen Republic. Russian forces are expected to use
Controversy Emerges Insides Russia Over Chechen Film Depicting 1944 Deportations
The Russian government refuses to understand that the history of the groups they conquered and the history of the conquerors cannot be combined into one narrative. When the conquerors start
Controversy Emerges Insides Russia Over Chechen Film Depicting 1944 Deportations
The Russian government refuses to understand that the history of the groups they conquered and the history of the conquerors cannot be combined into one narrative. When the conquerors start
Virtually All Abductions in North Caucasus Carried out by Authorities
The distinctive feature of the kidnappings in the North Caucasus today is that they are apparently carried out only by Russian government forces. In fact, some analysts assert that the
Virtually All Abductions in North Caucasus Carried out by Authorities
The distinctive feature of the kidnappings in the North Caucasus today is that they are apparently carried out only by Russian government forces. In fact, some analysts assert that the
Slain Rebel Leader in Kabardino-Balkaria Fought in Syria
In the first five months of 2014, Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) prevented six terrorist attacks and killed 130 militants (echo.msk.ru, June 10). The absolute majority of these attacks took
Slain Rebel Leader in Kabardino-Balkaria Fought in Syria
In the first five months of 2014, Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) prevented six terrorist attacks and killed 130 militants (echo.msk.ru, June 10). The absolute majority of these attacks took
Ingush Authorities Open Pandora’s Box by Calling for Blood Vengeance to Counter Insurgent Threat
As was previously announced, the leader of Ingushetia’s insurgents, Artur Gatagazhev (Emir Abdullah), was killed in the village of Sagopshi on May 24. Officers of Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB)
Ingush Authorities Open Pandora’s Box by Calling for Blood Vengeance to Counter Insurgent Threat
As was previously announced, the leader of Ingushetia’s insurgents, Artur Gatagazhev (Emir Abdullah), was killed in the village of Sagopshi on May 24. Officers of Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB)
Rais Mingaleev: A Post-Mortem Sketch on the Mysterious Leader of Tatar Jihadists
Rais Rinatovich Mingaleev was the first official leader of the Tatar jihadists. Based on a personal admission of carrying out attacks against Russian authorities and their policies in Tatarstan. He
Understanding the Mysterious Appearance of the Chechen ‘Vostok’ Battalion in Eastern Ukraine
Chechens confirm their brand worldwide every year. Unfortunately, it is not a brand of high fashion, or new direction in art or science. Chechens are regularly depicted as the bad
Understanding the Mysterious Appearance of the Chechen ‘Vostok’ Battalion in Eastern Ukraine
Chechens confirm their brand worldwide every year. Unfortunately, it is not a brand of high fashion, or new direction in art or science. Chechens are regularly depicted as the bad
Leader of Ingushetia’s Rebels Reportedly Killed in Special Operation
On the morning of May 24, Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) reportedly carried out a special operation jointly with police near construction sites in the village of Sagopshi in Ingushetia’s
Leader of Ingushetia’s Rebels Reportedly Killed in Special Operation
On the morning of May 24, Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) reportedly carried out a special operation jointly with police near construction sites in the village of Sagopshi in Ingushetia’s
Police in Stavropol Push Muslims Toward Radicalism
Russia is an extremely diverse country, but unlike in the United States, legislation is uniform across its entire territory. In the Russian Federation, the distinct features of regions and ethnic
Police in Stavropol Push Muslims Toward Radicalism
Russia is an extremely diverse country, but unlike in the United States, legislation is uniform across its entire territory. In the Russian Federation, the distinct features of regions and ethnic
Will Crimean Tatar Jihadists Join Forces With the Caucasus Emirate?
As the Crimean Tatars commemorated the 70th anniversary of their deportation from Crimea on May 18, many wondered what the Tatars’ next moves under the Russian occupation will be. Having
Will Crimean Tatar Jihadists Join Forces With the Caucasus Emirate?
As the Crimean Tatars commemorated the 70th anniversary of their deportation from Crimea on May 18, many wondered what the Tatars’ next moves under the Russian occupation will be. Having
Appointment of General Melikov to Replace Khloponin Points to Kremlin Bid to Subdue Dagestani Insurgency
Alexander Khloponin’s resignation as the Russian president’s representative in the North Caucasus Federal District could not have surprised anyone who has followed developments in that region. Analysts anticipated the resignation
Appointment of General Melikov to Replace Khloponin Points to Kremlin Bid to Subdue Dagestani Insurgency
Alexander Khloponin’s resignation as the Russian president’s representative in the North Caucasus Federal District could not have surprised anyone who has followed developments in that region. Analysts anticipated the resignation
Police Violence in Dagestan Continues as Republic Drifts Toward Collapse From Within
On May 5, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree abolishing the Ministry of Interior main directorates in all of Russia’s federal districts except for the North Caucasus Federal District
Police Violence in Dagestan Continues as Republic Drifts Toward Collapse From Within
On May 5, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree abolishing the Ministry of Interior main directorates in all of Russia’s federal districts except for the North Caucasus Federal District
Death of Tatar Militant Unlikely to End Streak of Militancy in the Volga
On September 24, 2006, almost immediately after Doku Umarov was appointed president of Ichkeria, he started reviewing the structure of the armed jihadi insurgency in Russia. Umarov merged his few
Death of Tatar Militant Unlikely to End Streak of Militancy in the Volga
On September 24, 2006, almost immediately after Doku Umarov was appointed president of Ichkeria, he started reviewing the structure of the armed jihadi insurgency in Russia. Umarov merged his few
Status of Chechens Rises in the Ranks of Middle East Jihadists
The Russian media, citing Agence France-Presse (AFP), recently reported that Yemeni authorities killed a militant named Abu Islam al-Shizani in the south of the country. His name was probably a
Status of Chechens Rises in the Ranks of Middle East Jihadists
The Russian media, citing Agence France-Presse (AFP), recently reported that Yemeni authorities killed a militant named Abu Islam al-Shizani in the south of the country. His name was probably a
Moscow Turns to Cossacks to Staunch the Exodus of Ethnic Russians From the North Caucasus
The Cossack issue has become relevant in Russia against the backdrop of the outflow of ethnic Russians from the North Caucasus (https://expert.ru/ratings/izmenenie-doli-russkih-v-naselenii-respublik-severnogo-kavkaza/). Chechnya and Ingushetia have practically become ethnically homogeneous
Moscow Turns to Cossacks to Staunch the Exodus of Ethnic Russians From the North Caucasus
The Cossack issue has become relevant in Russia against the backdrop of the outflow of ethnic Russians from the North Caucasus (https://expert.ru/ratings/izmenenie-doli-russkih-v-naselenii-respublik-severnogo-kavkaza/). Chechnya and Ingushetia have practically become ethnically homogeneous
Tensions Heighten Between Chechnya’s Leader and Influential Dagestani Figure
Few signs existed that there would be any change in the brotherly and neighborly relations between Ramzan Kadyrov and Saigidpasha Umakhanov—the mayor of Khasavyurt, a city on Dagestan’s administrative border
Tensions Heighten Between Chechnya’s Leader and Influential Dagestani Figure
Few signs existed that there would be any change in the brotherly and neighborly relations between Ramzan Kadyrov and Saigidpasha Umakhanov—the mayor of Khasavyurt, a city on Dagestan’s administrative border
Another Political Murder Committed in Dagestan
On the morning of April 17, Dagestani parliamentary deputy Musa Islavov was killed on Babayurt Road in the city of Khasavyurt by unidentified assailants who fired at his car before
Another Political Murder Committed in Dagestan
On the morning of April 17, Dagestani parliamentary deputy Musa Islavov was killed on Babayurt Road in the city of Khasavyurt by unidentified assailants who fired at his car before
Victory Over North Caucasus Insurgency Remains Elusive for Moscow
The Russian authorities have admitted that the situation involving the insurgency in the North Caucasus has no clear positive outlook for the government. The Main Directorate of the Russian Ministry
Victory Over North Caucasus Insurgency Remains Elusive for Moscow
The Russian authorities have admitted that the situation involving the insurgency in the North Caucasus has no clear positive outlook for the government. The Main Directorate of the Russian Ministry
Signs of Inter-Ethnic Conflict Reappear in Disputed Border Area of North Ossetia
Tensions have recently spiked not in the Republic of Ingushetia itself, but in the border area of neighboring North Ossetia, which is populated by ethnic Ingush. Residents of the village
Signs of Inter-Ethnic Conflict Reappear in Disputed Border Area of North Ossetia
Tensions have recently spiked not in the Republic of Ingushetia itself, but in the border area of neighboring North Ossetia, which is populated by ethnic Ingush. Residents of the village
The Islamic Factor in Crimea
Russia’s Anschluss of Crimea last month was carried out according to all the standard procedures of the Third Reich. Like Nazi Germany and the Sudetenland in 1938, Moscow captured Crimea
The Islamic Factor in Crimea
Russia’s Anschluss of Crimea last month was carried out according to all the standard procedures of the Third Reich. Like Nazi Germany and the Sudetenland in 1938, Moscow captured Crimea
Rebels Continue to Operate in Chechnya Despite Doku Umarov’s Death
Following the news of Doku Umarov’s death and the elevation of a new leader of the North Caucasian armed underground, experts have started to debate whether this will bring changes
Rebels Continue to Operate in Chechnya Despite Doku Umarov’s Death
Following the news of Doku Umarov’s death and the elevation of a new leader of the North Caucasian armed underground, experts have started to debate whether this will bring changes
Chechen Militants in Syria Make Key Gains in Syria Fighting
The actions of Chechens in Syria—repeatedly examined in this publication over the past two years—is a complex issue, which involves, in particular, the symbiosis of North Caucasian perseverance and Middle
Chechen Militants in Syria Make Key Gains in Syria Fighting
The actions of Chechens in Syria—repeatedly examined in this publication over the past two years—is a complex issue, which involves, in particular, the symbiosis of North Caucasian perseverance and Middle
Security Forces and Police in North Caucasus Systematically Violate Human Rights
In an attempt to change the statistics related to the armed underground movement in the North Caucasus, which damage the image of its republics, the authorities are turning a blind
Security Forces and Police in North Caucasus Systematically Violate Human Rights
In an attempt to change the statistics related to the armed underground movement in the North Caucasus, which damage the image of its republics, the authorities are turning a blind
Dagestani Authorities Employ Collective Punishment in Fight Against Rebels
Over three days, 11 people were killed in special operations in Dagestan. Ten of them were identified as members of the armed resistance, while the eleventh casualty was a member
Dagestani Authorities Employ Collective Punishment in Fight Against Rebels
Over three days, 11 people were killed in special operations in Dagestan. Ten of them were identified as members of the armed resistance, while the eleventh casualty was a member
Armed Rebels Remain Moscow’s Biggest Problem in Ingushetia
The leadership of Ingushetia is being forced to follow the orders of Kremlin strategists, which define how the situation will evolve in this, the smallest republic in the Russian Federation.
Armed Rebels Remain Moscow’s Biggest Problem in Ingushetia
The leadership of Ingushetia is being forced to follow the orders of Kremlin strategists, which define how the situation will evolve in this, the smallest republic in the Russian Federation.
North Caucasus Militants Announce New Leader to Replace Umarov
After seven months without any communication from the Caucasus Emirate’s emir, Doku Umarov, the leadership of the North Caucasian rebels’ velayats on March 18 officially admitted the death of their
North Caucasus Militants Announce New Leader to Replace Umarov
After seven months without any communication from the Caucasus Emirate’s emir, Doku Umarov, the leadership of the North Caucasian rebels’ velayats on March 18 officially admitted the death of their
Rebels in Ingushetia Target Police Under New Jammat Leadership
On the night of March 11, police officer Batyr Belkharoev was shot while he was driving his car near the village of Sagopshi in Ingushetia’s Malgobek district (https://lifenews.ru/news/128832). He died
Rebels in Ingushetia Target Police Under New Jammat Leadership
On the night of March 11, police officer Batyr Belkharoev was shot while he was driving his car near the village of Sagopshi in Ingushetia’s Malgobek district (https://lifenews.ru/news/128832). He died
Will Crimea Become Russia’s New Chechnya?
With tensions rising around the Ukrainian peninsula of Crimea, observers are increasingly drawing parallels to Chechnya. Crimea is an autonomous region within Ukraine—as Chechnya is within Russia—and has peculiarities that
Will Crimea Become Russia’s New Chechnya?
With tensions rising around the Ukrainian peninsula of Crimea, observers are increasingly drawing parallels to Chechnya. Crimea is an autonomous region within Ukraine—as Chechnya is within Russia—and has peculiarities that
Russia Arrests Several North Caucasian ‘Syrians’
The Syrian conflict has created more reasons for the Russian government to be concerned about the North Caucasus. A new category of rebels has been added to the existing rebels
Russia Arrests Several North Caucasian ‘Syrians’
The Syrian conflict has created more reasons for the Russian government to be concerned about the North Caucasus. A new category of rebels has been added to the existing rebels
Russian Orthodox Church Becomes Kremlin Tool for Retaining Control Over North Caucasus Muslims
It has been obvious for years already that Moscow’s North Caucasus policy has been coordinated by one of the Kremlin’s working groups on the region. It has been unclear, however,
Russian Orthodox Church Becomes Kremlin Tool for Retaining Control Over North Caucasus Muslims
It has been obvious for years already that Moscow’s North Caucasus policy has been coordinated by one of the Kremlin’s working groups on the region. It has been unclear, however,
Chechens Are Being Drawn Into the Conflict in Ukraine
Literally one month ago, this author wrote about how those opposed to the protesters in Kyiv’s Independence Square were saying that Chechens were among the protests and how the Russian
Chechens Are Being Drawn Into the Conflict in Ukraine
Literally one month ago, this author wrote about how those opposed to the protesters in Kyiv’s Independence Square were saying that Chechens were among the protests and how the Russian
Chechen Authorities’ Hidden War Against Militants
In the past week, many people in Chechnya saw an anonymous video of clashes at the administrative border between Chechnya and Ingushetia. The video was apparently recorded by a Chechen
Chechen Authorities’ Hidden War Against Militants
In the past week, many people in Chechnya saw an anonymous video of clashes at the administrative border between Chechnya and Ingushetia. The video was apparently recorded by a Chechen
Leaked Video Details the Activities of Russian Hit Squads Abroad
An unexpected breakthrough emerged in the stalled investigations of several mysterious international murders of Chechens with ties to the Caucasus Emirate in 2008–2012. The news concerns a person who simultaneously
Leaked Video Details the Activities of Russian Hit Squads Abroad
An unexpected breakthrough emerged in the stalled investigations of several mysterious international murders of Chechens with ties to the Caucasus Emirate in 2008–2012. The news concerns a person who simultaneously
Rebels in Kabardino-Balkaria Apologize for Accidental Killings
Since the start of the year, the security services have been waging a powerful counter-insurgency campaign in Kabardino-Balkaria and Dagestan. There are reports about the killing of a militant or
Rebels in Kabardino-Balkaria Apologize for Accidental Killings
Since the start of the year, the security services have been waging a powerful counter-insurgency campaign in Kabardino-Balkaria and Dagestan. There are reports about the killing of a militant or
With Fewer Options, Dagestani Leader Offers Deal to Salafi Sympathizers in Gimry
Magomedali Magomedov, who was removed as Dagestan’s president in 2013, was the first leader of the republic who proposed starting negotiations with the Salafis. The dialogue process was aimed at
With Fewer Options, Dagestani Leader Offers Deal to Salafi Sympathizers in Gimry
Magomedali Magomedov, who was removed as Dagestan’s president in 2013, was the first leader of the republic who proposed starting negotiations with the Salafis. The dialogue process was aimed at
Chechens Fingered by Moscow Arrested in Several European Countries but Then Released
Following Russia’s peculiar behavior in regard to sharing information on Tamerlan Tsarnaev with the United States (https://polit.ru/news/2013/04/22/tamerlan/), Moscow decided to pursue the same policies toward Chechens living in Europe. The
Chechens Fingered by Moscow Arrested in Several European Countries but Then Released
Following Russia’s peculiar behavior in regard to sharing information on Tamerlan Tsarnaev with the United States (https://polit.ru/news/2013/04/22/tamerlan/), Moscow decided to pursue the same policies toward Chechens living in Europe. The
Tbilisi Moves Closer to Moscow Vis-à-Vis the North Caucasus
Georgia’s policy toward the North Caucasus has never been marked by continuity. It experienced ups and downs throughout the ages, according to historical evidence. The Chechens helped the Georgians against
Tbilisi Moves Closer to Moscow Vis-à-Vis the North Caucasus
Georgia’s policy toward the North Caucasus has never been marked by continuity. It experienced ups and downs throughout the ages, according to historical evidence. The Chechens helped the Georgians against
Moscow Plays the Chechen Card in Ukraine
For the past several days, those hostile to the Ukrainians protesting against President Viktor Yanukovich on Maidan Nezalezhnosti (Independence Square) in Kyiv spread rumors alleging the presence of Chechens in
Moscow Plays the Chechen Card in Ukraine
For the past several days, those hostile to the Ukrainians protesting against President Viktor Yanukovich on Maidan Nezalezhnosti (Independence Square) in Kyiv spread rumors alleging the presence of Chechens in
Skewed Government Data on Attacks Creates False Picture of Stability in the North Caucasus
Since the start of the year, the conflicting sides in the North Caucasus and media monitoring organizations have begun providing figures for the number of people killed and wounded in
Skewed Government Data on Attacks Creates False Picture of Stability in the North Caucasus
Since the start of the year, the conflicting sides in the North Caucasus and media monitoring organizations have begun providing figures for the number of people killed and wounded in
Authorities in Chechnya Seek to Uproot Some Islamic Teachings
A powerful propaganda campaign against Salafism, Habashism and other prominent Islamic teachings was launched in Chechnya in mid-January. Chechen head Ramzan Kadyrov has brought up the issue of fighting unwanted
Authorities in Chechnya Seek to Uproot Some Islamic Teachings
A powerful propaganda campaign against Salafism, Habashism and other prominent Islamic teachings was launched in Chechnya in mid-January. Chechen head Ramzan Kadyrov has brought up the issue of fighting unwanted
Moscow Fails to Draw up a North Caucasus Action Plan
Increasingly it is becoming obvious that the leadership of Ingushetia and Dagestan are following the example of the Chechen government in trying to portray their regions as safe places in
Moscow Fails to Draw up a North Caucasus Action Plan
Increasingly it is becoming obvious that the leadership of Ingushetia and Dagestan are following the example of the Chechen government in trying to portray their regions as safe places in
Purge of High-Level Dagestani Officials Continues
On almost a daily basis, Dagestan is rife with explosions, murders, rumors and arrests. All this makes the situation in the republic bleak, especially against the backdrop of the approaching
Purge of High-Level Dagestani Officials Continues
On almost a daily basis, Dagestan is rife with explosions, murders, rumors and arrests. All this makes the situation in the republic bleak, especially against the backdrop of the approaching
Has the Number of Chechens Fighting in Syria Reached Its Peak?
The situation in Syria has not changed significantly in the past month, but the same cannot be said about the Chechens who are fighting there. Indeed, the Chechen groups in
Has the Number of Chechens Fighting in Syria Reached Its Peak?
The situation in Syria has not changed significantly in the past month, but the same cannot be said about the Chechens who are fighting there. Indeed, the Chechen groups in
Mairbek Vatchagaev quoted by the Wall Street Journal
Mairbek Vatchagaev was quoted by The Wall Street Journal in an article about a potential suicide bomber in Sochi.
Formation of Khasavyurt Jammat Reflects Influx of New Funds and Recruits
Dagestan’s Khasavyurt district has a long border with Chechnya. Moreover, a significant number of ethnic Chechens ended up in Dagestan after their territory was handed over to Dagestan in 1922
Formation of Khasavyurt Jammat Reflects Influx of New Funds and Recruits
Dagestan’s Khasavyurt district has a long border with Chechnya. Moreover, a significant number of ethnic Chechens ended up in Dagestan after their territory was handed over to Dagestan in 1922
Stavropol Becomes Cordon Sanitaire for Kremlin in Protecting Sochi
The mysterious killings of six people in Stavropol region on January 8 came as a complete surprise to the region’s law enforcement agencies and residents. Three cars whose drivers had
Stavropol Becomes Cordon Sanitaire for Kremlin in Protecting Sochi
The mysterious killings of six people in Stavropol region on January 8 came as a complete surprise to the region’s law enforcement agencies and residents. Three cars whose drivers had
Low-Level Insurgent Violence Continues Unabated in Dagestan
The last week of 2013 was dominated by the news about three terrorist attacks—one in Pyatigorsk and two in Volgograd. These attacks overshadowed the tense situation in the North Caucasus
Low-Level Insurgent Violence Continues Unabated in Dagestan
The last week of 2013 was dominated by the news about three terrorist attacks—one in Pyatigorsk and two in Volgograd. These attacks overshadowed the tense situation in the North Caucasus
Ethnic Russian Muslims Involved in Volgograd Bombings
The previous year, which ended so tragically for Russia with terrorist attacks in Pyatigorsk and Volgograd, was not an exceptional one for a country that has been mired in terrorism-related
Influence of Hizb ut-Tahrir al-Islami Spreads in Russia
The authorities in Russia sometimes indulge in populist actions that harm their own interests. One example is the recent crackdown in Dagestan on representatives of Hizb ut-Tahrir al-Islami (HuT). In
Influence of Hizb ut-Tahrir al-Islami Spreads in Russia
The authorities in Russia sometimes indulge in populist actions that harm their own interests. One example is the recent crackdown in Dagestan on representatives of Hizb ut-Tahrir al-Islami (HuT). In
Chechens Among the Syrian Rebels: Small in Number, but Influential
The situation of Syria’s Chechen community is changing rapidly. Three commanders—Emir Muslim (Muslim Margoshvili), Emir Seifullah (Ruslan Machaliashvili) and Emir Abu-Musaaba (Musa)—joined forces on October 31 (https://usudusham.com/ru/2013/11/1004/#more-1004), resulting in the
Chechens Among the Syrian Rebels: Small in Number, but Influential
The situation of Syria’s Chechen community is changing rapidly. Three commanders—Emir Muslim (Muslim Margoshvili), Emir Seifullah (Ruslan Machaliashvili) and Emir Abu-Musaaba (Musa)—joined forces on October 31 (https://usudusham.com/ru/2013/11/1004/#more-1004), resulting in the
Officers of Elite Russian Forces Train Chechens
Reports of clashes between government forces and militants in Chechnya are rare these days. However, the absence of such reports is not always due to an absence of clashes. Russia’s
Officers of Elite Russian Forces Train Chechens
Reports of clashes between government forces and militants in Chechnya are rare these days. However, the absence of such reports is not always due to an absence of clashes. Russia’s
Attacks on Churches and Mosques in Russia on the Rise
Against the backdrop of anti-Islamic hysteria launched by the Russian government’s propaganda machine, it is hard not to notice the negative trend in such a delicate matter as interfaith dialogue
Attacks on Churches and Mosques in Russia on the Rise
Against the backdrop of anti-Islamic hysteria launched by the Russian government’s propaganda machine, it is hard not to notice the negative trend in such a delicate matter as interfaith dialogue
North Caucasians in Russian Capital Increasingly Target of Hate Crimes
The Russian government is unable to restrain the nationalist trends spreading in the country. On December 11, 2010, Russian nationalists demonstrated just 20 meters away from the walls of the
North Caucasians in Russian Capital Increasingly Target of Hate Crimes
The Russian government is unable to restrain the nationalist trends spreading in the country. On December 11, 2010, Russian nationalists demonstrated just 20 meters away from the walls of the
Intra-Muslim Conflict Becomes New Dimension to Instability Dagestan
Six people were wounded by knives during large-scale clashes near a mosque in the town of Leninkent (formerly the village of Atly Buyun) near Makhachkala, Dagestan, on November 15. Two
Intra-Muslim Conflict Becomes New Dimension to Instability Dagestan
Six people were wounded by knives during large-scale clashes near a mosque in the town of Leninkent (formerly the village of Atly Buyun) near Makhachkala, Dagestan, on November 15. Two
Alleged Organizer of Volgograd Bombing Killed in Dagestan
The town of Semender—a suburb of Dagestan’s capital Makhachkala—has been notorious to those who follow the situation in the mountainous North Caucasus republic. In March, clashes between government forces and
Alleged Organizer of Volgograd Bombing Killed in Dagestan
The town of Semender—a suburb of Dagestan’s capital Makhachkala—has been notorious to those who follow the situation in the mountainous North Caucasus republic. In March, clashes between government forces and
The Role of the Hijab Is Becoming a National Problem for Russia
As a comprehensive assault on the jihadist movement in the North Caucasus gains momentum in Russia, Russian authorities are creating an additional superficial hurdle for themselves that is becoming more
The Role of the Hijab Is Becoming a National Problem for Russia
As a comprehensive assault on the jihadist movement in the North Caucasus gains momentum in Russia, Russian authorities are creating an additional superficial hurdle for themselves that is becoming more
Russian Investigative Committee Takes on Kadyrov’s Chechnya
The conflict between the Russian Investigative Committee and the Chechen authorities has come to forefront of late. News of this conflict started to circulate in connection to the unexpected resignation
Russian Investigative Committee Takes on Kadyrov’s Chechnya
The conflict between the Russian Investigative Committee and the Chechen authorities has come to forefront of late. News of this conflict started to circulate in connection to the unexpected resignation
Moscow Strives to Break the Resistance of Dagestani Militants
Militants in Dagestan have been extensively targeting judges in the republic, killing four so far this year. On January 15, Dagestani Supreme Court judge Magomed Magomedov was killed in Makhachkala.
Moscow Strives to Break the Resistance of Dagestani Militants
Militants in Dagestan have been extensively targeting judges in the republic, killing four so far this year. On January 15, Dagestani Supreme Court judge Magomed Magomedov was killed in Makhachkala.
Once Considered a Rising Star, Dagestan’s Gaji Makhachev May Be Heading for a Fall
The recent actions of Dagestan’s new leader, President Ramazan Abdulatipov, raise many questions among local residents. Watching Abdulatipov displace people considered to be the leaders of Dagestan’s clans (https://www.vesti.ru/theme.html?tid=103534), residents
Once Considered a Rising Star, Dagestan’s Gaji Makhachev May Be Heading for a Fall
The recent actions of Dagestan’s new leader, President Ramazan Abdulatipov, raise many questions among local residents. Watching Abdulatipov displace people considered to be the leaders of Dagestan’s clans (https://www.vesti.ru/theme.html?tid=103534), residents
Tensions Rise Between Authorities and Muslims in Stavropol Region
Soon after outlawing the Russian version of the Koran translated by the well-known scholar Elmir Kuliev (https://kavpolit.com/zapret-kulieva-ne-zapret-perevoda-a-zapret-korana/), it became apparent that the Russian authorities had opted for the most uncompromising
Tensions Rise Between Authorities and Muslims in Stavropol Region
Soon after outlawing the Russian version of the Koran translated by the well-known scholar Elmir Kuliev (https://kavpolit.com/zapret-kulieva-ne-zapret-perevoda-a-zapret-korana/), it became apparent that the Russian authorities had opted for the most uncompromising
New Russian Legislation Codifies Collective Punishment
Having failed to achieve tangible success in combating the armed jihadi resistance in the North Caucasus, Russia has opted for the path of Joseph Stalin. Interestingly enough, the proposal did
New Russian Legislation Codifies Collective Punishment
Having failed to achieve tangible success in combating the armed jihadi resistance in the North Caucasus, Russia has opted for the path of Joseph Stalin. Interestingly enough, the proposal did
Volgograd Suicide Bombing: Were the Sochi Olympics the Real Target?
Suicide bomber attacks in the North Caucasus rarely make headlines in the rest of the Russian Federation. Yet, any violent attack in Russia outside the North Caucasus, in ethnic Russian
Volgograd Suicide Bombing: Were the Sochi Olympics the Real Target?
Suicide bomber attacks in the North Caucasus rarely make headlines in the rest of the Russian Federation. Yet, any violent attack in Russia outside the North Caucasus, in ethnic Russian
Dagestan’s Government Celebrates Anniversary of Republic’s ‘Voluntary Accession’ into Russia
It appears that Moscow views appointing people in the regions who constantly declare loyalty to the Kremlin the best strategy to combat extremism, separatism and terrorism. At the same time,
Dagestan’s Government Celebrates Anniversary of Republic’s ‘Voluntary Accession’ into Russia
It appears that Moscow views appointing people in the regions who constantly declare loyalty to the Kremlin the best strategy to combat extremism, separatism and terrorism. At the same time,
Kremlin Effort Backfires on Embarrassing Imprisoned Ingush Guerilla Commander Magas
On October 15, the trial of the former military emir of the Caucasus Emirate and emir of the Ingush jamaat, Magas (a.k.a. Ali Taziev, Magomed Yevloev) concluded. Magas was the
Kremlin Effort Backfires on Embarrassing Imprisoned Ingush Guerilla Commander Magas
On October 15, the trial of the former military emir of the Caucasus Emirate and emir of the Ingush jamaat, Magas (a.k.a. Ali Taziev, Magomed Yevloev) concluded. Magas was the
Moscow Establishes Cadet Corps in the North Caucasus in a Bid to Create Loyalist Elite
In a search for solutions to the problem of the North Caucasus, the Russian government is returning to the practices of Russia’s Tsarist rulers. It is unclear who in the
Moscow Establishes Cadet Corps in the North Caucasus in a Bid to Create Loyalist Elite
In a search for solutions to the problem of the North Caucasus, the Russian government is returning to the practices of Russia’s Tsarist rulers. It is unclear who in the
As Sochi Approaches, Ethnic Russians Continue to Leave the North Caucasus
With the Olympics in Sochi scheduled to start on February 7, 2014, the situation in the North Caucasus is not improving as quickly as the authorities in the Kremlin would
As Sochi Approaches, Ethnic Russians Continue to Leave the North Caucasus
With the Olympics in Sochi scheduled to start on February 7, 2014, the situation in the North Caucasus is not improving as quickly as the authorities in the Kremlin would
Kabardino-Balkaria’s Crackdown on Rebels and Their Relatives Likely to Boomerang
Police in Kabardino-Balkaria conducted operations against the armed resistance and took preventive measures to foil terrorist attacks in the republic throughout the month of September (https://kabardino-balkaria.kavkaz-uzel.ru/articles/172027/).At the start of October,
Kabardino-Balkaria’s Crackdown on Rebels and Their Relatives Likely to Boomerang
Police in Kabardino-Balkaria conducted operations against the armed resistance and took preventive measures to foil terrorist attacks in the republic throughout the month of September (https://kabardino-balkaria.kavkaz-uzel.ru/articles/172027/).At the start of October,
Chechnya’s Exclusion from Military Conscription Shows Moscow’s Weak Hold over Region
Generally, the military conscription campaign in Russia becomes relevant for Chechnya and the North Caucasus twice a year—in the spring and in the fall, when the Russian president issues a
Chechnya’s Exclusion from Military Conscription Shows Moscow’s Weak Hold over Region
Generally, the military conscription campaign in Russia becomes relevant for Chechnya and the North Caucasus twice a year—in the spring and in the fall, when the Russian president issues a
Russian Muslim Organizations Split over Local Court’s Banning of Koran Translation
Something completely unexpected recently took place in Russia: a provincial court in Novorossiysk designated a Russian translation of the Koran as extremist material (https://echo.msk.ru/blog/echomsk/1161702-echo/). The court’s decision stipulated that all
Russian Muslim Organizations Split over Local Court’s Banning of Koran Translation
Something completely unexpected recently took place in Russia: a provincial court in Novorossiysk designated a Russian translation of the Koran as extremist material (https://echo.msk.ru/blog/echomsk/1161702-echo/). The court’s decision stipulated that all
Russian Diplomat’s Murder in Abkhazia Has Powerful Implications for Russian-Georgian Relations
On September 9, Russian diplomat Dmitry Vishernev was killed in Sukhumi, the capital of the breakaway Georgian region of Abkhazia, which Moscow has “recognized” as independent along with South Ossetia
Russian Diplomat’s Murder in Abkhazia Has Powerful Implications for Russian-Georgian Relations
On September 9, Russian diplomat Dmitry Vishernev was killed in Sukhumi, the capital of the breakaway Georgian region of Abkhazia, which Moscow has “recognized” as independent along with South Ossetia
Monument Controversy Raises Doubt over Stability of Moscow-Grozny Relationship
The problem for Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov appeared out of nowhere, and in a place he least expected. One of the most ardent opponents of war in Chechnya, the coordinator
Monument Controversy Raises Doubt over Stability of Moscow-Grozny Relationship
The problem for Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov appeared out of nowhere, and in a place he least expected. One of the most ardent opponents of war in Chechnya, the coordinator
North Caucasus Leaders Adopt Kadyrov Model to Dealing with Militants
Militants carried out two significant attacks in Chechnya and Ingushetia on September 16 and 17. The attacks took place in the districts that are adjacent to each other and have
North Caucasus Leaders Adopt Kadyrov Model to Dealing with Militants
Militants carried out two significant attacks in Chechnya and Ingushetia on September 16 and 17. The attacks took place in the districts that are adjacent to each other and have
Hundreds of North Caucasians Have Joined the Ranks of Syria’s Rebels
Following Syrian Foreign Minister Walid Muallem’s September 9 visit to Moscow at the invitation of Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov (https://kommersant.ru/doc/2275019), the issue of the involvement of Chechens in the
Hundreds of North Caucasians Have Joined the Ranks of Syria’s Rebels
Following Syrian Foreign Minister Walid Muallem’s September 9 visit to Moscow at the invitation of Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov (https://kommersant.ru/doc/2275019), the issue of the involvement of Chechens in the
North Caucasus Residents Increasingly Feel the Heat of the Approaching Olympics
Six months prior to the Winter Olympics in Sochi, which will be the most expensive games in the history of the Olympics, Russia has started to make arrangements to prevent
North Caucasus Residents Increasingly Feel the Heat of the Approaching Olympics
Six months prior to the Winter Olympics in Sochi, which will be the most expensive games in the history of the Olympics, Russia has started to make arrangements to prevent
Ramazan Abdulatipov Confirmed as Dagestan’s President
While opposition candidates are allowed to run for office in Russian cities like Moscow and Yekaterinburg—and, in the case of the mayoral race in the latter, possibly even win—the situation
Ramazan Abdulatipov Confirmed as Dagestan’s President
While opposition candidates are allowed to run for office in Russian cities like Moscow and Yekaterinburg—and, in the case of the mayoral race in the latter, possibly even win—the situation
Was Top Ingush Official Targeted by New Insurgent Leader?
On the morning of August 27, the secretary of Ingushetia’s Security Council, Akhmed Kotiev, was killed when unidentified attackers fired shots at his car in the vicinity of the town
Was Top Ingush Official Targeted by New Insurgent Leader?
On the morning of August 27, the secretary of Ingushetia’s Security Council, Akhmed Kotiev, was killed when unidentified attackers fired shots at his car in the vicinity of the town
Competition for Russia’s Top Landmarks Alienates Chechens
During the last two weeks of August, practically all the residents of Chechnya were busy voting for the republic’s main mosque, called the “Heart of Chechnya,” in the competition for
Competition for Russia’s Top Landmarks Alienates Chechens
During the last two weeks of August, practically all the residents of Chechnya were busy voting for the republic’s main mosque, called the “Heart of Chechnya,” in the competition for
Chechen Leader Takes Up the Cause of Ethnic Kin in Syria
On August 12, Chechen militants launched a bomb attack targeting the reconnaissance group of the Russian interior ministry’s Sever Battalion, which is primarily manned by residents of the Chechen Republic
Chechen Leader Takes Up the Cause of Ethnic Kin in Syria
On August 12, Chechen militants launched a bomb attack targeting the reconnaissance group of the Russian interior ministry’s Sever Battalion, which is primarily manned by residents of the Chechen Republic
Caucasus Emirate Leader Discusses Chechens in Syria in New Video
Six years after Doku Umarov publicly rejected the idea of Ichkerian independence in favor of the Islamic state of the Caucasus Emirate, he continues to justify this change.In a recent
Caucasus Emirate Leader Discusses Chechens in Syria in New Video
Six years after Doku Umarov publicly rejected the idea of Ichkerian independence in favor of the Islamic state of the Caucasus Emirate, he continues to justify this change.In a recent
Influence of Chechen Leader of North Caucasian Fighters in Syria Grows
The situation in Syria this past week developed in now typical fashion, with each of the conflicting sides claiming victories. Two events that occurred, however, should be noted. First, the
Influence of Chechen Leader of North Caucasian Fighters in Syria Grows
The situation in Syria this past week developed in now typical fashion, with each of the conflicting sides claiming victories. Two events that occurred, however, should be noted. First, the
Murder of Leading Dagestani Cleric Signals Deepening Crisis in Sufi Hierarchy
Yet another Sufi sheikh has been added to the list of those killed in Dagestan. On August 3, Sheikh Ilyas-haji Ilyasov, of the branch of Islamic teaching known as the
Murder of Leading Dagestani Cleric Signals Deepening Crisis in Sufi Hierarchy
Yet another Sufi sheikh has been added to the list of those killed in Dagestan. On August 3, Sheikh Ilyas-haji Ilyasov, of the branch of Islamic teaching known as the
Mairbek Vatchagaev quoted by WND
Mairbek Vatchagaev was quoted by WND in an article titled "2014 Olympics hit with terror warning."
Religious Tensions Grow in Astrakhan Region
Astrakhan is a port city on the lower part of the Volga River and a large military harbor on the Caspian Sea. To the east, Astrakhan region borders Kazakhstan; to
Religious Tensions Grow in Astrakhan Region
Astrakhan is a port city on the lower part of the Volga River and a large military harbor on the Caspian Sea. To the east, Astrakhan region borders Kazakhstan; to
Popular Cleric Poses a Threat to Ingushetia’s Leader
After a year of sparring with Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov over several dozen hectares of disputed land, the president of Ingushetia decided to distinguish himself in yet another field. According
Popular Cleric Poses a Threat to Ingushetia’s Leader
After a year of sparring with Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov over several dozen hectares of disputed land, the president of Ingushetia decided to distinguish himself in yet another field. According
Clashes Between Police and Militants Continue to Be Reported in Kabardino-Balkaria
On July 17, the Kabardino-Balkarian interior minister summed up the results of the first six months of the year during a press conference in the republican capital, Nalchik. The minister
Clashes Between Police and Militants Continue to Be Reported in Kabardino-Balkaria
On July 17, the Kabardino-Balkarian interior minister summed up the results of the first six months of the year during a press conference in the republican capital, Nalchik. The minister
Ramazan Abdulatipov Consults Ramzan Kadyrov’s Playbook
Nowadays, the leader of each North Caucasian republic is expected to select either the Chechen path of development or the Kabardino-Balkarian path. The Chechen path is crude, concentrating all power
Ramazan Abdulatipov Consults Ramzan Kadyrov’s Playbook
Nowadays, the leader of each North Caucasian republic is expected to select either the Chechen path of development or the Kabardino-Balkarian path. The Chechen path is crude, concentrating all power
Large-Scale Special Operation Conducted in Dagestani Town of Semender
Reverberations from the military operation in the Dagestani town of Semender in March have been felt throughout the republic, attracting attention to this small suburban town near the republican capital
Large-Scale Special Operation Conducted in Dagestani Town of Semender
Reverberations from the military operation in the Dagestani town of Semender in March have been felt throughout the republic, attracting attention to this small suburban town near the republican capital
National Anti-Terrorism Committee Admits Ideological Roots of Terrorist Threat
The Russian media have reported that in June alone, more than 20 people were killed and wounded in the North Caucasus (www.kavkaz-uzel.ru/articles/226418/). Against the backdrop of such news, government official
National Anti-Terrorism Committee Admits Ideological Roots of Terrorist Threat
The Russian media have reported that in June alone, more than 20 people were killed and wounded in the North Caucasus (www.kavkaz-uzel.ru/articles/226418/). Against the backdrop of such news, government official
Umarov Bows to Pressure Inside Militant Command to Target Sochi Olympics
Many observers were surprised by rebel leader Doku Umarov’s videotaped statement recently posted on the Internet announcing an end to the moratorium on attacks on Russian territory (https://archive.org/details/AmirIkDokkuAbuUsmanOtmenilMoratorijNaOperaciiVRossii), but this
Umarov Bows to Pressure Inside Militant Command to Target Sochi Olympics
Many observers were surprised by rebel leader Doku Umarov’s videotaped statement recently posted on the Internet announcing an end to the moratorium on attacks on Russian territory (https://archive.org/details/AmirIkDokkuAbuUsmanOtmenilMoratorijNaOperaciiVRossii), but this
Large-Scale Clash with Insurgents Reported in Chechnya in Bamut
Even though over the past several years militants in the North Caucasus have not adhered to their old tactic of intensifying attacks in the spring-fall period, observers still tend to
Large-Scale Clash with Insurgents Reported in Chechnya in Bamut
Even though over the past several years militants in the North Caucasus have not adhered to their old tactic of intensifying attacks in the spring-fall period, observers still tend to
Jamestown analyst Mairbek Vatchagaev quoted by WND
Jamestown analyst Mairbek Vatchagaev was quoted by WND in an article titled Islamists Decide to Back Syrian Uprising.
Caucasus Emirate Reverses Position on Syrian Jihad
In less than a year, the Caucasus Emirate’s leaders have reversed their position on whether or not to view the uprising in Syria as a sacred jihad. The leader of
Caucasus Emirate Reverses Position on Syrian Jihad
In less than a year, the Caucasus Emirate’s leaders have reversed their position on whether or not to view the uprising in Syria as a sacred jihad. The leader of
Head of Ingushetia Yevkurov Spars with Captured Insurgent Leader Emir Magas in Court
Three years ago—on June 9, 2010—Russian authorities made a surprise announcement that one of the most significant and influential figures in the armed resistance in the North Caucasus, Emir Magas
Head of Ingushetia Yevkurov Spars with Captured Insurgent Leader Emir Magas in Court
Three years ago—on June 9, 2010—Russian authorities made a surprise announcement that one of the most significant and influential figures in the armed resistance in the North Caucasus, Emir Magas
Ingush Leader Paints Positive Picture in Republic Despite Increases in Militant Attacks
The administration of Ingush leader Yunus-Bek Yevkurov is trying to portray the dynamic that is occurring in the republic as positive. As often happens in the North Caucasus, republican leaders
Ingush Leader Paints Positive Picture in Republic Despite Increases in Militant Attacks
The administration of Ingush leader Yunus-Bek Yevkurov is trying to portray the dynamic that is occurring in the republic as positive. As often happens in the North Caucasus, republican leaders
Russian Muslim Militants Are Joining the Ranks of Rebel Fighters in Syria
Throughout 2012, Russian leaders refused to admit that there were any Chechens fighting on the side of the Syrian opposition. Ramzan Kadyrov tirelessly reassured the public that reports of Chechens
Russian Muslim Militants Are Joining the Ranks of Rebel Fighters in Syria
Throughout 2012, Russian leaders refused to admit that there were any Chechens fighting on the side of the Syrian opposition. Ramzan Kadyrov tirelessly reassured the public that reports of Chechens
The North Caucasus Trail of the Boston Bombers: A Militant Leadership Monitor Special Report
The horrible tragedy in Boston on April 15 has refocused Western attention on Russia’s troubled North Caucasus, which has already experienced more than a decade of turmoil and upheaval. Many
Surge in Militant Activity in Kabardino-Balkaria May Force Ouster of Kanokov
During the ten-day period from May 29 to June 9, five armed assaults on police officers were reported in Kabardino-Balkaria as the militant movement there appears to be experiencing a
Surge in Militant Activity in Kabardino-Balkaria May Force Ouster of Kanokov
During the ten-day period from May 29 to June 9, five armed assaults on police officers were reported in Kabardino-Balkaria as the militant movement there appears to be experiencing a
Moscow Decides to Implement Chechen Blueprint in Dagestan
Dagestan is interesting not only because it is the largest republic of the region, but also because it has by far the strongest Salafist armed resistance in the North Caucasus.
Moscow Decides to Implement Chechen Blueprint in Dagestan
Dagestan is interesting not only because it is the largest republic of the region, but also because it has by far the strongest Salafist armed resistance in the North Caucasus.
Latest Killing of Chechen Separatist Envoy in Turkey Points to Russia
Against the background of the unfolding situation around the Chechen brothers accused of carrying out the Boston Marathon terrorist bombings, Tamerlan and Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, and the killing in Florida of
Latest Killing of Chechen Separatist Envoy in Turkey Points to Russia
Against the background of the unfolding situation around the Chechen brothers accused of carrying out the Boston Marathon terrorist bombings, Tamerlan and Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, and the killing in Florida of
With Eye on Sochi, Authorities in North Caucasus Play Down Continuing Wave of Attacks
The armed resistance movement in the North Caucasus has carried out suicide bombings ever since the start of the second military campaign in Chechnya. On June 4, 2000, a 22-year-old
With Eye on Sochi, Authorities in North Caucasus Play Down Continuing Wave of Attacks
The armed resistance movement in the North Caucasus has carried out suicide bombings ever since the start of the second military campaign in Chechnya. On June 4, 2000, a 22-year-old
Moscow’s Revolving Door of Alleged Killings of Militant Leaders in Ingushetia Continues
The armed conflict in the North Caucasus continues to kill and maim (www.kavkaz-uzel.ru/articles/224400/). Murders, kidnappings and explosions have become the daily routine in this part of Russia. Only suicide bombings
Moscow’s Revolving Door of Alleged Killings of Militant Leaders in Ingushetia Continues
The armed conflict in the North Caucasus continues to kill and maim (www.kavkaz-uzel.ru/articles/224400/). Murders, kidnappings and explosions have become the daily routine in this part of Russia. Only suicide bombings
Did Surkov Step Down, or Was He Forced to Step Down?
In his childhood, Vladislav Surkov, an ethnic Chechen by birth, initially had his father’s surname, Dudaev—a surname that is related to the Zandak teip (clan) (www.anticompromat.org/surkov/surkbio.html). However, with Russian first
Did Surkov Step Down, or Was He Forced to Step Down?
In his childhood, Vladislav Surkov, an ethnic Chechen by birth, initially had his father’s surname, Dudaev—a surname that is related to the Zandak teip (clan) (www.anticompromat.org/surkov/surkbio.html). However, with Russian first
International Islamist Movement Spreads to the North Caucasus
The Jamestown Foundation has repeatedly reported on Hizb ut-Tahrir’s (HuT) activities in Russia over the past several years. And as the investigation of the Boston bombings progresses, reports are surfacing
International Islamist Movement Spreads to the North Caucasus
The Jamestown Foundation has repeatedly reported on Hizb ut-Tahrir’s (HuT) activities in Russia over the past several years. And as the investigation of the Boston bombings progresses, reports are surfacing
Dagestan’s Bloodshed Continues to Grow
May 2013 in Dagestan began in the usual bloody manner. On April 30, the eve of the May 1 holiday in Russia, three police officers – a major, captain and
Dagestan’s Bloodshed Continues To Grow
May 2013 in Dagestan began in the usual bloody manner. On April 30, the eve of the May 1 holiday in Russia, three police officers – a major, captain and
Radicalization of Tsarnaev Brothers Likely Did Not Occur in Chechnya
The role of the brothers Tamerlan and Dzhokhar Tsarnaev in the Boston bombings is assessed differently on either side of the Atlantic. In the United States, few doubt they are
Radicalization of Tsarnaev Brothers Likely Did Not Occur in Chechnya
The role of the brothers Tamerlan and Dzhokhar Tsarnaev in the Boston bombings is assessed differently on either side of the Atlantic. In the United States, few doubt they are
Is Kabardino-Balkaria Following the Path of Dagestan?
The tragedy in Boston reminded the world about the simmering conflict in the North Caucasus, which has not been resolved because the West largely ignored the region. The outside world
Is Kabardino-Balkaria Following the Path of Dagestan?
The tragedy in Boston reminded the world about the simmering conflict in the North Caucasus, which has not been resolved because the West largely ignored the region. The outside world
Hot Issue – A Profile of Mahmud Mansur Nidal: The Alleged Dagestani Connection to Boston Bomber Tamerlan Tsarnaev
In connection with the tragic events in Boston, some Western journalists have started pursuing sensational angles to the story concerning the purported ties between the alleged elder Boston Marathon bomber,
A Profile of Mahmud Mansur Nidal: The Alleged Dagestani Connection to Boston Bomber Tamerlan Tsarnaev
In connection with the tragic events in Boston, some Western journalists have started pursuing sensational angles to the story concerning the purported ties between the alleged elder Boston Marathon bomber,
Why Tamerlan Tsarnaev Is Outside of Chechen Mentality
Why did Tamerlan Tsarnaev—one of the alleged April 15 Boston Marathon bombers who died in a shoot-out with police on April 18—not demand an end to the bloodshed in Dagestan,
Why Tamerlan Tsarnaev Is Outside of Chechen Mentality
Why did Tamerlan Tsarnaev—one of the alleged April 15 Boston Marathon bombers who died in a shoot-out with police on April 18—not demand an end to the bloodshed in Dagestan,
Kumyk Leader Murdered in Dagestan
The Kumyks are the third largest ethnic group in Dagestan. According to official data for 2010, an estimated 422,000 Kumyks lived in the mountainous republic (www.webcitation.org/616BvJEEv), ranking third after the
Kumyk Leader Murdered in Dagestan
The Kumyks are the third largest ethnic group in Dagestan. According to official data for 2010, an estimated 422,000 Kumyks lived in the mountainous republic (www.webcitation.org/616BvJEEv), ranking third after the
Parts of Boston Bombers’ Radicalization Narrative Remain Murky
Since the start of the second Chechen war in the fall of 1999, the Chechen armed resistance has evolved, with poorly educated people from the villages gradually replaced by young
Parts of Boston Bombers’ Radicalization Narrative Remain Murky
Since the start of the second Chechen war in the fall of 1999, the Chechen armed resistance has evolved, with poorly educated people from the villages gradually replaced by young
Mairbek Vatchagaev cited by International Business Times
Mairbek Vatchagaev was cited by International Business Times in an article about Chechen refugees.
Yevkurov’s Predecessors Gear Up to Challenge Him for Ingush Presidency
Surprising news emerged from Moscow this week that Ruslan Aushev plans to challenge the current head of Ingushetia, Yunus-Bek Yevkurov, and run for the position of republican head. Aushev made
A Preliminary Profile of the Boston Bombers: The Tsarnaev Brothers
The Tsarnaev brothers, Tamerlan, 26 years old, and 19-year-old Jokhar, have been accused of carrying out the bombing at the Boston Marathon on Monday, April 15. Tamerlan has died from
Yevkurov’s Predecessors Gear Up to Challenge Him for Ingush Presidency
Surprising news emerged from Moscow this week that Ruslan Aushev plans to challenge the current head of Ingushetia, Yunus-Bek Yevkurov, and run for the position of republican head. Aushev made
A Preliminary Profile of the Boston Bombers: The Tsarnaev Brothers
The Tsarnaev brothers, Tamerlan, 26 years old, and 19-year-old Jokhar, have been accused of carrying out the bombing at the Boston Marathon on Monday, April 15. Tamerlan has died from
The Magnitsky List and Chechnya
Lenin’s classic declaration on the 1917 revolution—“Comrades! The socialist revolution that the Bolsheviks were talking about for so long has come true!”—can be used to describe the Magnitsky Act. Yet,
The Magnitsky List and Chechnya
Lenin’s classic declaration on the 1917 revolution—“Comrades! The socialist revolution that the Bolsheviks were talking about for so long has come true!”—can be used to describe the Magnitsky Act. Yet,
The Yarmuk Jamaat and the Sochi Olympics
The Yarmuk jamaat in Kabardino-Balkarian and the Karachay jamaat in Karachaevo-Cherkessia are among the jamaats that cause the Russian security services the most concern. The Karachay jamaat is currently in
The Yarmuk Jamaat and the Sochi Olympics
The Yarmuk jamaat in Kabardino-Balkarian and the Karachay jamaat in Karachaevo-Cherkessia are among the jamaats that cause the Russian security services the most concern. The Karachay jamaat is currently in
Special Operation Along Chechen-Ingush Border May Be Targeting Doku Umarov
Over the past week, Russian government special forces have been conducting a large-scale special operation to root out militants in the Achkhoi-Martan district of Chechnya and the adjacent Sunzha district
Special Operation Along Chechen-Ingush Border May Be Targeting Doku Umarov
Over the past week, Russian government special forces have been conducting a large-scale special operation to root out militants in the Achkhoi-Martan district of Chechnya and the adjacent Sunzha district
Is Kremlin Moving to Replace Ingush Leader?
President Vladimir Putin recently signed into law legislation that allows Russian regions to choose their form of election for governor. They can now do it either through popular elections or
Is Kremlin Moving to Replace Ingush Leader?
President Vladimir Putin recently signed into law legislation that allows Russian regions to choose their form of election for governor. They can now do it either through popular elections or
Russian Human Rights Ombudsman Has Little Effect on the Situation in the North Caucasus
The annual report of the Russian human rights ombudsman, Vladimir Lukin, is interesting not so much for its conclusions as for the distrust it evokes among the country’s population. Ordinary
Russian Human Rights Ombudsman Has Little Effect on the Situation in the North Caucasus
The annual report of the Russian human rights ombudsman, Vladimir Lukin, is interesting not so much for its conclusions as for the distrust it evokes among the country’s population. Ordinary
Chechen Insurgency Leader Doku Umarov Tells Chechens Not to Fight in Syria
Over the past several months, various sources have raised the issue of Chechen involvement in the armed uprising in Syria. Few doubt that Chechens have been present in the conflict-ridden
Chechen Insurgency Leader Doku Umarov Tells Chechens Not to Fight in Syria
Over the past several months, various sources have raised the issue of Chechen involvement in the armed uprising in Syria. Few doubt that Chechens have been present in the conflict-ridden
Poor Performance in Makhachkala Suburb Reflects Continuing Flaws in Russian Counter-Insurgency Operations
A special operation in the Makhachkala suburb of Semender that lasted from the morning of March 20 to the evening of March 23 illuminated both a lack of skills in
Poor Performance in Makhachkala Suburb Reflects Continuing Flaws in Russian Counter-Insurgency Operations
A special operation in the Makhachkala suburb of Semender that lasted from the morning of March 20 to the evening of March 23 illuminated both a lack of skills in
Ibragim Gajidadaev, Dagestan’s Most Wanted Militant, Involved in Makhachkala Shootout
Media reports about a government special operation in the suburban town of Semender near Makhachkala, Dagestan, would not have captured anybody’s attention (www.moidagestan.ru/news/antiterror/26153) had there not been several strong reasons
Ibragim Gajidadaev, Dagestan’s Most Wanted Militant, Involved in Makhachkala Shootout
Media reports about a government special operation in the suburban town of Semender near Makhachkala, Dagestan, would not have captured anybody’s attention (www.moidagestan.ru/news/antiterror/26153) had there not been several strong reasons
Disputed Border Area Between Chechnya and Ingushetia Remains Regional Hot Spot
Another successful special operation by government forces in the border area between Chechnya and Ingushetia has again attracted attention to this region, which is sometimes referred to as a Bermuda
Disputed Border Area Between Chechnya and Ingushetia Remains Regional Hot Spot
Another successful special operation by government forces in the border area between Chechnya and Ingushetia has again attracted attention to this region, which is sometimes referred to as a Bermuda
Death of Rebel-led Gakaev Brothers Traced to Government Planted Mole
Uncharacteristically, the Chechen government announced the launch of a series of special operations on March 12, when a counter-terrorism operation regime was introduced in Chechnya’s Shali district. The announcement specified
Death of Rebel-led Gakaev Brothers Traced to Government Planted Mole
Uncharacteristically, the Chechen government announced the launch of a series of special operations on March 12, when a counter-terrorism operation regime was introduced in Chechnya’s Shali district. The announcement specified
Dagestan’s Conflict Grinds On
On March 9, four people were killed in three different parts of Dagestan. One incident took place in Khasavyurt district, which is predominantly populated by Chechens, Avars and Kumyks. Another
Dagestan’s Conflict Grinds On
On March 9, four people were killed in three different parts of Dagestan. One incident took place in Khasavyurt district, which is predominantly populated by Chechens, Avars and Kumyks. Another
Russian Urban Centers Might Be Target for Next Muslim Riots
On March 2, Federal Security Service (FSB) personnel in St. Petersburg arrested members of the Nurjular organization, which in 2008 was designated as an extremist group by the Russian Supreme
Russian Urban Centers Might Be Target for Next Muslim Riots
On March 2, Federal Security Service (FSB) personnel in St. Petersburg arrested members of the Nurjular organization, which in 2008 was designated as an extremist group by the Russian Supreme
Continuing Human Rights Abuses Force Chechens to Flee to Europe
The massive relocation of North Caucasians to Europe is still under way, producing concerns among both the regional authorities in the North Caucasus and Western European countries. While in 2000,
Continuing Human Rights Abuses Force Chechens to Flee to Europe
The massive relocation of North Caucasians to Europe is still under way, producing concerns among both the regional authorities in the North Caucasus and Western European countries. While in 2000,
Dagestan Is Enmeshed in Another Round of Ethnic Confrontation
Following the Kumyks, who held a rally in the city of Pyatigorsk on February 10 (https://www.chernovik.net/content/lenta-novostey/v-pyatigorske-proshyol-sezd-kumykskogo-naroda), Chechen residents of Dagestan have also come out into the streets to protest. The
Dagestan Is Enmeshed in Another Round of Ethnic Confrontation
Following the Kumyks, who held a rally in the city of Pyatigorsk on February 10 (https://www.chernovik.net/content/lenta-novostey/v-pyatigorske-proshyol-sezd-kumykskogo-naroda), Chechen residents of Dagestan have also come out into the streets to protest. The
No Letup in Insurgent Violence in Dagestan
On February 14, Russian Deputy General Prosecutor Ivan Sydoruk publicly admitted that Dagestan ranked first in the Russian Federation in terms of the number of crimes committed. That same day,
No Letup in Insurgent Violence in Dagestan
On February 14, Russian Deputy General Prosecutor Ivan Sydoruk publicly admitted that Dagestan ranked first in the Russian Federation in terms of the number of crimes committed. That same day,
Moscow Weighs Various Options for Stabilizing Stavropol
At the start of 2013, Russian media increased their coverage of a possible demographic shift in Stavropol region in favor of North Caucasians. The Stavropol region is the largest territory
Moscow Weighs Various Options for Stabilizing Stavropol
At the start of 2013, Russian media increased their coverage of a possible demographic shift in Stavropol region in favor of North Caucasians. The Stavropol region is the largest territory
Extrajudicial Arrests and Killings on the Rise in Ingushetia
Reports of killings arrive from Ingushetia practically every week. During a Federal Security Service (FSB) operation on February 12, the officers killed a local resident. Security officials identified the slain
Extrajudicial Arrests and Killings on the Rise in Ingushetia
Reports of killings arrive from Ingushetia practically every week. During a Federal Security Service (FSB) operation on February 12, the officers killed a local resident. Security officials identified the slain
With Eye to Sochi, Interior Ministry Foresees Reductions in the North Caucasus
In January, government forces killed 26 militants in the North Caucasus Federal District. Eight of those killed were referred to as leaders of the illegal armed groups. In the same
With Eye to Sochi, Interior Ministry Foresees Reductions in the North Caucasus
In January, government forces killed 26 militants in the North Caucasus Federal District. Eight of those killed were referred to as leaders of the illegal armed groups. In the same
Authorities See Salafi Groups Popping Up Everywhere Inside Russia
The Russian government has been forced to admit it is worried not only about Islam’s proliferation in the North Caucasus, but also about the proliferation of ideas of the North
Authorities See Salafi Groups Popping Up Everywhere Inside Russia
The Russian government has been forced to admit it is worried not only about Islam’s proliferation in the North Caucasus, but also about the proliferation of ideas of the North
Is the Caucasus Emirate Encroaching on the Volga Region?
On January 30, a conference on the influence of the Caucasus Emirate in the Volga region took place in Kazan (https://scienceport.ru/). Participants in the conference discussed issues related to the
Is the Caucasus Emirate Encroaching on the Volga Region?
On January 30, a conference on the influence of the Caucasus Emirate in the Volga region took place in Kazan (https://scienceport.ru/). Participants in the conference discussed issues related to the
Dagestan’s New Leaders Faces an Upsurge in Insurgent Activities
While the new president of Dagestan, Ramazan Abdulatipov, is busy looking for an “honest minister of education” (www.yuga.ru/news/285954/), the republic appears to have ignored the change in the leadership. In
Dagestan’s New Leaders Faces an Upsurge in Insurgent Activities
While the new president of Dagestan, Ramazan Abdulatipov, is busy looking for an “honest minister of education” (www.yuga.ru/news/285954/), the republic appears to have ignored the change in the leadership. In
Dagestan: New President, Old Problems
As was expected, Dagestani President Magomedsalam Magomedov has stepped down. Russian President Vladimir Putin issued a decree on January 28 ending Magomedov’s term, saying that the move was made “at
Dagestan: New President, Old Problems
As was expected, Dagestani President Magomedsalam Magomedov has stepped down. Russian President Vladimir Putin issued a decree on January 28 ending Magomedov’s term, saying that the move was made “at
Killing of Gakaev Brothers Setback for North Caucasus Insurgency, but Not Fatal
January brought unexpected news from Chechnya. In the course of a six-day military operation against the militants in the republic’s Vedeno district, government forces killed 11 militants and captured one
Killing of Gakaev Brothers Setback for North Caucasus Insurgency, but Not Fatal
January brought unexpected news from Chechnya. In the course of a six-day military operation against the militants in the republic’s Vedeno district, government forces killed 11 militants and captured one
Russian Orthodox Church Redraws Its Map of the North Caucasus
The Russian Orthodox Church has reformed its organizational structures in the North Caucasus twice in the last few years alone. Thus, on March 22, 2011, Dagestan, Chechnya and Ingushetia became
Russian Orthodox Church Redraws Its Map of the North Caucasus
The Russian Orthodox Church has reformed its organizational structures in the North Caucasus twice in the last few years alone. Thus, on March 22, 2011, Dagestan, Chechnya and Ingushetia became
Dagestan’s Delicate Ethnic Balance Is Under Threat
The start of 2013 was marked by a rapid deterioration of the security situation in Dagestan. The course of events in Dagestan in 2012 showed that the republican authorities not
Dagestan’s Delicate Ethnic Balance Is Under Threat
The start of 2013 was marked by a rapid deterioration of the security situation in Dagestan. The course of events in Dagestan in 2012 showed that the republican authorities not
Religious Violence Hits Relatively Quiet North Ossetia
In North Ossetia-Alania, a relatively quiet place compared to other republics of the North Caucasus, 2012 ended with a high-profile killing. The murder could have serious consequences for the socio-political
Religious Violence Hits Relatively Quiet North Ossetia
In North Ossetia-Alania, a relatively quiet place compared to other republics of the North Caucasus, 2012 ended with a high-profile killing. The murder could have serious consequences for the socio-political
Security Situation in Ingushetia in 2012 Worsened
A review of what happened in the various republics of the North Caucasus in 2012 indicates that the Russian authorities failed to turn the tide in their favor. On the
Security Situation in Ingushetia in 2012 Worsened
A review of what happened in the various republics of the North Caucasus in 2012 indicates that the Russian authorities failed to turn the tide in their favor. On the
Chechnya’s Insurgency Stubbornly Remained Active in 2012
Out of 137 official news releases in connection to the armed opposition’s activities in Chechnya in 2012, 71 were about the arrests of rebel supporters. One-third of those arrested on
Chechnya’s Insurgency Stubbornly Remained Active in 2012
Out of 137 official news releases in connection to the armed opposition’s activities in Chechnya in 2012, 71 were about the arrests of rebel supporters. One-third of those arrested on
Violence in Dagestan Accelerated in 2012
At the start of 2013 it makes sense to summarize the events of the previous year. The official figures from 2012 suggest that the Republic of Dagestan today is the
Violence in Dagestan Accelerated in 2012
At the start of 2013 it makes sense to summarize the events of the previous year. The official figures from 2012 suggest that the Republic of Dagestan today is the
Violence in Ingushetia Continues Upswing
Early December saw multiple victims of the armed confrontation in the North Caucasus, as had the previous weeks of this year. According to independent sources, eight people were killed, one
Violence in Ingushetia Continues Upswing
Early December saw multiple victims of the armed confrontation in the North Caucasus, as had the previous weeks of this year. According to independent sources, eight people were killed, one
Confrontation Between Dagestani Authorities and Rebels Worsens
Dagestan’s state news agency reported a killing on the Kavkaz federal highway near the village of Agachaul on December 7 under a strange headline. According to RIA Dagestan, unknown assailants
Confrontation Between Dagestani Authorities and Rebels Worsens
Dagestan’s state news agency reported a killing on the Kavkaz federal highway near the village of Agachaul on December 7 under a strange headline. According to RIA Dagestan, unknown assailants
Apparently Eying Another Term, Yevkurov Launches PR Campaign
The end of November was packed with events for the head of the small North Caucasusian republic of Ingushetia. On November 22–23, Yunus-Bek Yevkurov visited Kazakhstan, where he met people
Apparently Eying Another Term, Yevkurov Launches PR Campaign
The end of November was packed with events for the head of the small North Caucasusian republic of Ingushetia. On November 22–23, Yunus-Bek Yevkurov visited Kazakhstan, where he met people
Head of World Union of Muslim Scholars Visits Dagestan
Having failed to defeat the armed resistance, the Dagestani authorities decided to look for help by finding favorable interpretations of Sharia law among foreign scholars. The republican authorities certainly received
Head of World Union of Muslim Scholars Visits Dagestan
Having failed to defeat the armed resistance, the Dagestani authorities decided to look for help by finding favorable interpretations of Sharia law among foreign scholars. The republican authorities certainly received
Chechens Are Among Foreigners Fighting to Overthrow Bashar al-Assad
The world press recently began to discuss the fact that some Chechens are involved in the uprising against Syrian President Bashar al-Assad (see EDM, August 3). The number Chechens fighting
Chechens Are Among Foreigners Fighting to Overthrow Bashar al-Assad
The world press recently began to discuss the fact that some Chechens are involved in the uprising against Syrian President Bashar al-Assad (see EDM, August 3). The number Chechens fighting
Arrests in Turkey May Be Connected to So-Called “Berlin Group” of Russian Killers
On November 22, the Turkish authorities announced that six people had been arrested in Istanbul for involvement in the murder of Chechen refugees in the city in September 2011 (www.mk.ru/social/news/2012/11/22/777469-politsiya-stambula-zaderzhala-ubiyts-chechenskih-bezhentsev.html).On
Arrests in Turkey May Be Connected to So-Called “Berlin Group” of Russian Killers
On November 22, the Turkish authorities announced that six people had been arrested in Istanbul for involvement in the murder of Chechen refugees in the city in September 2011 (www.mk.ru/social/news/2012/11/22/777469-politsiya-stambula-zaderzhala-ubiyts-chechenskih-bezhentsev.html).On
Moscow Recognizes Hizb-ut-Tahrir Operates Inside Russia
It has been 460 years since the first Muslim groups were incorporated into the Russian state (www.prlib.ru/history/pages/item.aspx?itemid=268), yet Moscow has not advanced at all toward better understanding the Islamic world.
Moscow Recognizes Hizb-ut-Tahrir Operates Inside Russia
It has been 460 years since the first Muslim groups were incorporated into the Russian state (www.prlib.ru/history/pages/item.aspx?itemid=268), yet Moscow has not advanced at all toward better understanding the Islamic world.
Kadyrov and Yevkurov Continue Their Verbal Battle
It will soon be a year since frictions emerged between the leaders of the neighboring and kindred republics, Chechnya and Ingushetia. Although the capitals of the two republics, Grozny and
Kadyrov and Yevkurov Continue Their Verbal Battle
It will soon be a year since frictions emerged between the leaders of the neighboring and kindred republics, Chechnya and Ingushetia. Although the capitals of the two republics, Grozny and
Chechen and Ingush Leaders Feud over Burial of Slain Insurgents
At the beginning of November, Chechen authorities made several statements that were underreported by the media but which illuminated important aspects of Moscow’s policies in the North Caucasus. Moreover, those
Chechen and Ingush Leaders Feud over Burial of Slain Insurgents
At the beginning of November, Chechen authorities made several statements that were underreported by the media but which illuminated important aspects of Moscow’s policies in the North Caucasus. Moreover, those
Recent Russian Survey Finds Terrorism Threat Highest in Dagestan
The Petersburg Politics Foundation along with the Regnum news agency recently produced a joint assessment of socio-political stability in Russia’s regions, using a ten-point scale, and identified three North Caucasian
Recent Russian Survey Finds Terrorism Threat Highest in Dagestan
The Petersburg Politics Foundation along with the Regnum news agency recently produced a joint assessment of socio-political stability in Russia’s regions, using a ten-point scale, and identified three North Caucasian
The ‘Quietude’ of Kabardino-Balkaria
Once a renowned resort republic, Kabardino-Balkaria nowadays is more often mentioned in the news not as a resort region known across Russia, but as a territory in which counter-terrorism operations
The ‘Quietude’ of Kabardino-Balkaria
Once a renowned resort republic, Kabardino-Balkaria nowadays is more often mentioned in the news not as a resort region known across Russia, but as a territory in which counter-terrorism operations
Dagestani Opposition Holds Demonstration in Moscow to Create Attention
Plans by the Dagestani opposition to hold a conference in Moscow in late October 2012 was known to the republican authorities in Makhachkala well in advance of the event. The
Dagestani Opposition Holds Demonstration in Moscow to Create Attention
Plans by the Dagestani opposition to hold a conference in Moscow in late October 2012 was known to the republican authorities in Makhachkala well in advance of the event. The
Descendants of Shamil Continue to Resist Authorities in Dagestan
On the night of October 28, another special operation aimed at detecting potential militants was conducted in the mountainous Avar village of Gimry in Dagestan’s Untsukul district. Gimry is known
Descendants of Shamil Continue to Resist Authorities in Dagestan
On the night of October 28, another special operation aimed at detecting potential militants was conducted in the mountainous Avar village of Gimry in Dagestan’s Untsukul district. Gimry is known
Moscow and Grozny Continue to Play Down Chechnya’s Persistent Insurgency
While on a visit to Chechnya on October 15, Russian Interior Minister Vladimir Kolokoltsev held a meeting with the Russian Interior Ministry police chiefs of the North Caucasus Federal District
Moscow and Grozny Continue to Play Down Chechnya’s Persistent Insurgency
While on a visit to Chechnya on October 15, Russian Interior Minister Vladimir Kolokoltsev held a meeting with the Russian Interior Ministry police chiefs of the North Caucasus Federal District
Kadyrov Seeks to Retain Privileged Financial Position for Chechnya in the North Caucasus
Chechens suddenly learned from the Russian media that the authorities in Moscow were preparing to axe the federal program on socio-economic development of the Chechen Republic in 2008–2012. Chechnya was
Kadyrov Seeks to Retain Privileged Financial Position for Chechnya in the North Caucasus
Chechens suddenly learned from the Russian media that the authorities in Moscow were preparing to axe the federal program on socio-economic development of the Chechen Republic in 2008–2012. Chechnya was
Events in Dagestan Force the Kremlin to Become More Active
Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev visited Dagestan on October 2 (www.ria.ru/economy/20121002/764528570.html). While there, Medvedev stated that Moscow was prepared to inject additional cash into the North Caucasus in order to
Events in Dagestan Force the Kremlin to Become More Active
Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev visited Dagestan on October 2 (www.ria.ru/economy/20121002/764528570.html). While there, Medvedev stated that Moscow was prepared to inject additional cash into the North Caucasus in order to
Caucasus Emirate’s Ethnic Russian Suicide Bombers
The killing of the well-known Sufi sheikh Said Chirkeiski by a Russian female suicide bomber has again raised the issue of those in Russia who convert from Orthodox Christianity to
Caucasus Emirate’s Ethnic Russian Suicide Bombers
The killing of the well-known Sufi sheikh Said Chirkeiski by a Russian female suicide bomber has again raised the issue of those in Russia who convert from Orthodox Christianity to
Moscow Develops Dagestan Along the Model of Chechnya
Against the backdrop of a presumably pacified Chechnya, the neighboring republic of Dagestan remains only barely under the government’s control, even formally. In contrast to Chechnya, the Kremlin has stumbled
Moscow Develops Dagestan Along the Model of Chechnya
Against the backdrop of a presumably pacified Chechnya, the neighboring republic of Dagestan remains only barely under the government’s control, even formally. In contrast to Chechnya, the Kremlin has stumbled
Jamestown’s Senior Fellow Mairbek Vatchagaev Cited by Assyrian International News Agency
Jamestown Senior Fellow Mairbek Vatchagaev was cited by Assyrian International News Agency regarding the Russian Federation and Islamism.
Insurgents and Protesters Alike Challenge Ingush Authorities
October in Ingushetia started off in the usual way, with routine shootouts and attacks on military personnel. There were, however, more important events for the republican government to attend to,
Insurgents and Protesters Alike Challenge Ingush Authorities
October in Ingushetia started off in the usual way, with routine shootouts and attacks on military personnel. There were, however, more important events for the republican government to attend to,
Ethnic Russians vs. North Caucasians–A Clash of Cultures?
An incident in Moscow at the end of September caused tension between Russians and people of North Caucasian descent in the Russian capital. The scandal was triggered by a group
Ethnic Russians vs. North Caucasians–A Clash of Cultures?
An incident in Moscow at the end of September caused tension between Russians and people of North Caucasian descent in the Russian capital. The scandal was triggered by a group
Officially Sanctioned Kidnappings Alienate the Dagestani Public
The news from Dagestan in September was dominated by reports of militant actions, special operations and terror attacks, but the most worrying development has been the occurrence of multiple kidnappings
Officially Sanctioned Kidnappings Alienate the Dagestani Public
The news from Dagestan in September was dominated by reports of militant actions, special operations and terror attacks, but the most worrying development has been the occurrence of multiple kidnappings
Moscow tries to tame Islam in Chechnya
Ever since Chechnya was conquered in May 1859, Russia has tried out various ways to weaken the role of Islam there. It was Islam that became the banner of the
Moscow Tries to Tame Islam in Chechnya
Ever since Chechnya was conquered in May 1859, Russia has tried out various ways to weaken the role of Islam there. It was Islam that became the banner of the
Insurgency Remains a Problem for Chechen Authorities
The Chechen authorities recently started to report regularly on hunting down militants in the foothills and mountains of the republic (www.kavkaz-uzel.ru/articles/212177/). Results of manhunts normally become known only if rebels
Insurgency Remains a Problem for Chechen Authorities
The Chechen authorities recently started to report regularly on hunting down militants in the foothills and mountains of the republic (www.kavkaz-uzel.ru/articles/212177/). Results of manhunts normally become known only if rebels
Ethnic Russian Separatism in the North Caucasus Set to Grow
Clashes between ethnic Russians and non-ethnic Russian Dagestanis erupted in the village of Remontnoe in the southern Russian region of Rostov on September 13. Eight people reportedly were hospitalized as
Relations Between Leaders of Chechnya and Ingushetia Deteriorate
In the wake of hostile exchanges between the Chechen and Ingush governments that started in late July, relations between the two republics could again seriously deteriorate following Chechen law enforcement
Relations Between Leaders of Chechnya and Ingushetia Deteriorate
In the wake of hostile exchanges between the Chechen and Ingush governments that started in late July, relations between the two republics could again seriously deteriorate following Chechen law enforcement
North Caucasians Look to Tbilisi to Provide a Counterweight to Moscow
With the approach of parliamentary elections in Georgia on October 1, the intensity of political struggle in the country is increasing. The Georgian elections are a historical opportunity for the
North Caucasians Look to Tbilisi to Provide a Counterweight to Moscow
With the approach of parliamentary elections in Georgia on October 1, the intensity of political struggle in the country is increasing. The Georgian elections are a historical opportunity for the
Dagestan Remains the Deadliest Republic of the North Caucasus
On August 28, Dagestan’s President Magomedsalam Magomedov presided over an extraordinary joint meeting of the Security Council of Dagestan and the Coordination Council for Law Enforcement in Dagestan. The leader
Dagestan Remains the Deadliest Republic of the North Caucasus
On August 28, Dagestan’s President Magomedsalam Magomedov presided over an extraordinary joint meeting of the Security Council of Dagestan and the Coordination Council for Law Enforcement in Dagestan. The leader
Ingushetia Experiences Spike in Violence as Militants Mount New Attacks
August ended with fresh casualties among both civilians and law enforcement personnel in Ingushetia. According to independent estimates, there were 44 casualties in Ingushetia in August—19 killed and 25 injured.
Ingushetia Experiences Spike in Violence as Militants Mount New Attacks
August ended with fresh casualties among both civilians and law enforcement personnel in Ingushetia. According to independent estimates, there were 44 casualties in Ingushetia in August—19 killed and 25 injured.
Georgian Forces in Shoot Out with North Caucasus Militants
A Georgian news agency surprised everybody on August 28 with the announcement that the country’s armed forces had launched a special operation against an armed group near the Russian-Georgian border.
Georgian Forces in Shoot Out with North Caucasus Militants
A Georgian news agency surprised everybody on August 28 with the announcement that the country’s armed forces had launched a special operation against an armed group near the Russian-Georgian border.
Who Was Really Behind the Death of Dagestan’s Sheikh?
On August 28, one of the most respected spiritual leaders of Dagestan of the past century, Said Atsaev, was murdered in the village of Chirkei, located 25 kilometers northwest of
Who Was Really Behind the Death of Dagestan’s Sheikh?
On August 28, one of the most respected spiritual leaders of Dagestan of the past century, Said Atsaev, was murdered in the village of Chirkei, located 25 kilometers northwest of
North Caucasian Athletes Put in Strong Performance at London Olympics
At the conclusion of the London Olympics, Russians suddenly realized that the Russian national team had a non-Russian face. Olympic sports were much revered in the Soviet Union and are
North Caucasian Athletes Put in Strong Performance at London Olympics
At the conclusion of the London Olympics, Russians suddenly realized that the Russian national team had a non-Russian face. Olympic sports were much revered in the Soviet Union and are
The Evolution of Salafism in the North Caucasus
For the past twelve years of Russian armed containment of the ideology of the insurgents in the North Caucasus, the North Caucasian armed resistance has changed significantly. At first, only
The Evolution of Salafism in the North Caucasus
For the past twelve years of Russian armed containment of the ideology of the insurgents in the North Caucasus, the North Caucasian armed resistance has changed significantly. At first, only
Suicide Bombings Return to Grozny
Before the commotion over the possible death of the well-known Chechen rebel emir Zaurbek Avdorkhanov in the Ingush village of Galashki on July 29 had subsided (www.chechenews.com/world-news/breaking/8565-1.html), suicide bombers attacked
Suicide Bombings Return to Grozny
Before the commotion over the possible death of the well-known Chechen rebel emir Zaurbek Avdorkhanov in the Ingush village of Galashki on July 29 had subsided (www.chechenews.com/world-news/breaking/8565-1.html), suicide bombers attacked
Border Dispute Prompts Leaders of Chechnya and Ingushetia to Hurl Accusations at One Another
Prior to August 2012, nothing portended the souring of relations between the respective heads of Chechnya and Ingushetia – Ramzan Kadyrov and Yunus-Bek Yevkurov. It all began with a trivial
Border Dispute Prompts Leaders of Chechnya and Ingushetia to Hurl Accusations at One Another
Prior to August 2012, nothing portended the souring of relations between the respective heads of Chechnya and Ingushetia – Ramzan Kadyrov and Yunus-Bek Yevkurov. It all began with a trivial
Rumors Emerge of Chechen Participation in Syria Fighting
An Agence France Press (AFP) journalist covering the armed Syrian opposition made a statement about the presence of Chechen militants in Syria that alarmed the Russian public. Referring to the
Rumors Emerge of Chechen Participation in Syria Fighting
An Agence France Press (AFP) journalist covering the armed Syrian opposition made a statement about the presence of Chechen militants in Syria that alarmed the Russian public. Referring to the
North Caucasus Conflict Spreads to Tatarstan
The Republic of Tatarstan, willingly or not, is starting to move down the same path as the North Caucasus region. This trend is exemplified by incidents in the republic’s capital
North Caucasus Conflict Spreads to Tatarstan
The Republic of Tatarstan, willingly or not, is starting to move down the same path as the North Caucasus region. This trend is exemplified by incidents in the republic’s capital
Kizilyurt Remains a Hotbed of the Dagestani Insurgency
Having been tipped off about the whereabouts of several members of the armed resistance in Dagestan, the republican security services identified their location on July 21. Special units of the
Kizilyurt Remains a Hotbed of the Dagestani Insurgency
Having been tipped off about the whereabouts of several members of the armed resistance in Dagestan, the republican security services identified their location on July 21. Special units of the
Tatarstan – Russia’s New Hot Spot?
A high-profile crime against the official Islamic hierarchy of the republic of Tatarstan took place in this relatively quiet Russian region on July 19, when the chief of the instructional
Tatarstan – Russia’s New Hot Spot?
A high-profile crime against the official Islamic hierarchy of the republic of Tatarstan took place in this relatively quiet Russian region on July 19, when the chief of the instructional
Ingushetia Resembles a Dormant Volcano of Problems
Recent events in Ingushetia, the smallest republic of the North Caucasus, have forced observers not to discount the Ingush armed resistance’s capabilities. In 2011, there were 108 casualties in the
Ingushetia Resembles a Dormant Volcano of Problems
Recent events in Ingushetia, the smallest republic of the North Caucasus, have forced observers not to discount the Ingush armed resistance’s capabilities. In 2011, there were 108 casualties in the
Dagestan Insurgency Grinds on as Officials Borrow Methods Used in Chechnya
Those who follow developments in Dagestan cannot fail to notice that the republican leadership, in dealing with the militants, is trying to adopt the experience of neighboring Chechnya. The Dagestani
Dagestan Insurgency Grinds on as Officials Borrow Methods Used in Chechnya
Those who follow developments in Dagestan cannot fail to notice that the republican leadership, in dealing with the militants, is trying to adopt the experience of neighboring Chechnya. The Dagestani
Dagestani Anti-Insurgency Vigilante Group Posts Internet Video
As of July 11, 20 people had already been killed or wounded in insurgency-related violence in Dagestan since the beginning of the month. The total number of casualties in the
Dagestani Anti-Insurgency Vigilante Group Posts Internet Video
As of July 11, 20 people had already been killed or wounded in insurgency-related violence in Dagestan since the beginning of the month. The total number of casualties in the
Islam in Chechnya Becomes Kremlin Propaganda Tool to Rebuild Image in Muslim World
As the Chechen Republic has been gradually rebuilt following the destruction of two wars, the Islamization of the region has become increasingly evident. While the federal center is not involved
Islam in Chechnya Becomes Kremlin Propaganda Tool to Rebuild Image in Muslim World
As the Chechen Republic has been gradually rebuilt following the destruction of two wars, the Islamization of the region has become increasingly evident. While the federal center is not involved
Russia Begins to Fear Conscripts from the North Caucasus
The Russian military does not want to deal with military conscripts from the North Caucasus region and has placed them outside the constitution of the Russian Federation. By applying these
Russia Begins to Fear Conscripts from the North Caucasus
The Russian military does not want to deal with military conscripts from the North Caucasus region and has placed them outside the constitution of the Russian Federation. By applying these
Is Moscow Contemplating a Military Withdrawal from the Northeastern Caucasus?
In March, the Russian military command unexpectedly began redeploying troops from Chechnya to Dagestan. Russian military forces left Chechnya in the largest numbers ever since the start of the second
Is Moscow Contemplating a Military Withdrawal from the Northeastern Caucasus?
In March, the Russian military command unexpectedly began redeploying troops from Chechnya to Dagestan. Russian military forces left Chechnya in the largest numbers ever since the start of the second
Why Was Khizri Aldamov “Returned” to Chechnya?
It came as a complete surprise when Chechen TV, on the evening of June 13, broadcast a meeting between Ramzan Kadyrov and Khizri Aldamov, who was the general representative in
Why Was Khizri Aldamov “Returned” to Chechnya?
It came as a complete surprise when Chechen TV, on the evening of June 13, broadcast a meeting between Ramzan Kadyrov and Khizri Aldamov, who was the general representative in
Dagestan’s Security Situation Remains Problematic Despite Increased Military Presence
Russian authorities are trying to dramatically change the situation in Dagestan. The strategically important North Caucasian republic has a 150-kilometer (93-mile) long border with Georgia and a 315-km (196-mile) long
Dagestan’s Security Situation Remains Problematic Despite Increased Military Presence
Russian authorities are trying to dramatically change the situation in Dagestan. The strategically important North Caucasian republic has a 150-kilometer (93-mile) long border with Georgia and a 315-km (196-mile) long
Who Made an Attempt to Kill Kadyrov, and Why?
Against the backdrop of the general security situation across the North Caucasus, where in May alone 164 people were victims of the conflict between the government and the armed opposition,
Who Made an Attempt to Kill Kadyrov, and Why?
Against the backdrop of the general security situation across the North Caucasus, where in May alone 164 people were victims of the conflict between the government and the armed opposition,
The Karachay Jamaat: Alive and Operational
Every news item about insurgent activities in Karachaevo-Cherkessia should be put in the wider context of the general situation in the North Caucasus. On a regional scale, the events in
The Karachay Jamaat: Alive and Operational
Every news item about insurgent activities in Karachaevo-Cherkessia should be put in the wider context of the general situation in the North Caucasus. On a regional scale, the events in
Rising Russian Nationalist Sentiment Makes North Caucasus Secession More Likely
Anti-Chechen and anti-Caucasian hysteria in the Russian media is rapidly expanding. Russian authorities have always regulated this kind of campaigns behind the scenes, depending on Moscow’s objectives in the North
Rising Russian Nationalist Sentiment Makes North Caucasus Secession More Likely
Anti-Chechen and anti-Caucasian hysteria in the Russian media is rapidly expanding. Russian authorities have always regulated this kind of campaigns behind the scenes, depending on Moscow’s objectives in the North
A Cold Wind Blows from Moscow to Chechnya
Ramzan Kadyrov explained his sudden dismissal of the Chechen government on May 17 by pointing to the new challenges he said the republic was facing (www.vesti.ru/doc.html?id=796442). However, no one in
A Cold Wind Blows from Moscow to Chechnya
Ramzan Kadyrov explained his sudden dismissal of the Chechen government on May 17 by pointing to the new challenges he said the republic was facing (www.vesti.ru/doc.html?id=796442). However, no one in
Russian Islam or Islam in Russia?
Relations between Russian authorities and the country’s Muslim subjects have been a sensitive issue since Islam appeared within the limits of the Russian Empire. Islam today remains one of the
Russian Islam or Islam in Russia?
Relations between Russian authorities and the country’s Muslim subjects have been a sensitive issue since Islam appeared within the limits of the Russian Empire. Islam today remains one of the
Kabardino-Balkaria’s Rebels Survive Heavy Losses to Return as Insurgent Force
Kabardino-Balkaria is likely to face the worst case scenario in the security sphere this summer and fall. The republic’s jamaat seems to have finished regrouping, having recovered following its deep
Kabardino-Balkaria’s Rebels Survive Heavy Losses to Return as Insurgent Force
Kabardino-Balkaria is likely to face the worst case scenario in the security sphere this summer and fall. The republic’s jamaat seems to have finished regrouping, having recovered following its deep
Ingushetia Heads Toward Rebellion
The course of events in the republic of Ingushetia, the smallest and youngest republic of the Russian Federation, has changed dramatically over the past two years. In particular, changes were
Ingushetia Heads Toward Rebellion
The course of events in the republic of Ingushetia, the smallest and youngest republic of the Russian Federation, has changed dramatically over the past two years. In particular, changes were
Russia Errs Again in Trying to Resolve the North Caucasus Insurgency Problem
The last few days in May have been tense in Chechnya, including inside the pro-Moscow government of Chechnya, with Ramzan Kadyrov sacking the republican government. Odes Baisultanov, Kadyrov’s cousin, had
Russia Errs Again in Trying to Resolve the North Caucasus Insurgency Problem
The last few days in May have been tense in Chechnya, including inside the pro-Moscow government of Chechnya, with Ramzan Kadyrov sacking the republican government. Odes Baisultanov, Kadyrov’s cousin, had
Umarov Calls on All Russia’s Muslims to Join Jihad
It appears the Caucasus Emirate’s representatives finally realized that it is no longer enough to talk about “worldwide jihad” and position the war in the Caucasus as part of it.
Umarov Calls on All Russia’s Muslims to Join Jihad
It appears the Caucasus Emirate’s representatives finally realized that it is no longer enough to talk about “worldwide jihad” and position the war in the Caucasus as part of it.
Videotaped Chechen Rebels’ Meeting Indicates Their Numbers Are Underestimated
Despite the constant upbeat reports from Russian ministries and agencies concerning the “neutralization” of 316 militants in the North Caucasus since the start of 2012, the number of militants in
Videotaped Chechen Rebels’ Meeting Indicates Their Numbers Are Underestimated
Despite the constant upbeat reports from Russian ministries and agencies concerning the “neutralization” of 316 militants in the North Caucasus since the start of 2012, the number of militants in
Sufis and Salafists Temporarily Unite in Dagestan
The recent signing of a resolution after a meeting of the Muslim Spiritual Board of Dagestan on the one side, and the Salafi-backed Association of Akhlu Sunna on the other
Instability in Southern Dagestan widens despite deaths of militant leaders
The Republic of Dagestan has become the principal scene of all the North Caucasian resistance movement in the past two years. Not only does the republic have the largest number
Instability in Southern Dagestan widens despite deaths of militant leaders
The Republic of Dagestan has become the principal scene of all the North Caucasian resistance movement in the past two years. Not only does the republic have the largest number
Moscow Is Trying to Outsmart the Salafis in Chechnya
In recent years, Moscow and its regional governors have attempted to win over the Muslim publics of the North Caucasus through fortifying the Muslim spiritual boards and pitting them against
Moscow Is Trying to Outsmart the Salafis in Chechnya
In recent years, Moscow and its regional governors have attempted to win over the Muslim publics of the North Caucasus through fortifying the Muslim spiritual boards and pitting them against
Chechen Officials Unable to Combat Growing Growth of Extremism and Separatism
Recent events in and around Chechnya indicate a high level of tensions in the republic that also have become endemic in most parts of the North Caucasus. While being under
Chechen Officials Unable to Combat Growing Growth of Extremism and Separatism
Recent events in and around Chechnya indicate a high level of tensions in the republic that also have become endemic in most parts of the North Caucasus. While being under
Kidnappings and Murders Are Again Becoming Routine in Ingushetia
On April 3, in a bloody incident in Nazran, five people were killed on their way home from their jobs at a brickyard (www.kavkaz-uzel.ru/articles/204389/). The incident illuminated the authorities’ incompetence
Kidnappings and Murders Are Again Becoming Routine in Ingushetia
On April 3, in a bloody incident in Nazran, five people were killed on their way home from their jobs at a brickyard (www.kavkaz-uzel.ru/articles/204389/). The incident illuminated the authorities’ incompetence
Azerbaijani Jamaat Cooperates with Caucasus Emirate
The Republic of Azerbaijan is inarguably one of the fastest developing countries in the post-Soviet space. Large revenues from exports of oil and gas have obscured all of the problems
Azerbaijani Jamaat Cooperates with Caucasus Emirate
The Republic of Azerbaijan is inarguably one of the fastest developing countries in the post-Soviet space. Large revenues from exports of oil and gas have obscured all of the problems
Kabardino-Balkaria Asks Moscow to Boost Republican Interior Ministry’s Ranks
March appeared to be a fairly successful month for the Russian security services that carried out counterterrorism operations in Kabardino-Balkaria. On March 29, Kabardino-Balkaria’s parliament, along with republican Interior Minister
Kabardino-Balkaria Asks Moscow to Boost Republican Interior Ministry’s Ranks
March appeared to be a fairly successful month for the Russian security services that carried out counterterrorism operations in Kabardino-Balkaria. On March 29, Kabardino-Balkaria’s parliament, along with republican Interior Minister
Troop Redeployments in the North Caucasus Point to More Trouble on the Horizon
Judging by the number of trips Russian Interior Minister Rashid Nurgaliev has made to Chechnya, one might think that Russia consists of only Chechnya and Moscow. Otherwise, these visits, sometimes
Troop Redeployments in the North Caucasus Point to More Trouble on the Horizon
Judging by the number of trips Russian Interior Minister Rashid Nurgaliev has made to Chechnya, one might think that Russia consists of only Chechnya and Moscow. Otherwise, these visits, sometimes
In the Age of the Internet Russia Races Several Strains of Radical Islam
There has recently been a spate of news stories in Russia about the Hizb ut-Tahrir al-Islami organization (Party of Liberation). This organization is on the Russian Supreme Court’s official list
In the Age of the Internet Russia Races Several Strains of Radical Islam
There has recently been a spate of news stories in Russia about the Hizb ut-Tahrir al-Islami organization (Party of Liberation). This organization is on the Russian Supreme Court’s official list
Do the Russian Intelligence Services Not Know Who They Are Fighting in Ingushetia?
Russia’s state-run RIA Novosti news agency reported on March 3 that “the head of the Ingush bandit underground, Adam Tsyzdoev, was liquidated in a special operation” (https://lenta.ru/news/2012/03/03/kill/). Akhmetgeri Tsechoev was
Do the Russian Intelligence Services Not Know Who They Are Fighting in Ingushetia?
Russia’s state-run RIA Novosti news agency reported on March 3 that “the head of the Ingush bandit underground, Adam Tsyzdoev, was liquidated in a special operation” (https://lenta.ru/news/2012/03/03/kill/). Akhmetgeri Tsechoev was
Russian Security Services Responsible for Majority of Kidnappings in the North Caucasus
The North Caucasus is the only part of Russia where the authorities engage in systematic abductions – a practice that has existed since the first war in Chechnya in the
Russian Security Services Responsible for Majority of Kidnappings in the North Caucasus
The North Caucasus is the only part of Russia where the authorities engage in systematic abductions – a practice that has existed since the first war in Chechnya in the
Dagestan Rebel Movement Undergoes Leadership Changes as Radicalization Deepens
The death of yet another Dagestani rebel leader this month passed unnoticed against the backdrop of bloody fighting in the border area between Chechnya and Dagestan last week. Like the
Dagestan Rebel Movement Undergoes Leadership Changes as Radicalization Deepens
The death of yet another Dagestani rebel leader this month passed unnoticed against the backdrop of bloody fighting in the border area between Chechnya and Dagestan last week. Like the
Fighting Along Chechen-Dagestani Administrative Border Heaviest in Recent Years
The start of the large-scale special operation by the police, military and Federal Security Service (FSB) forces launched in Chechnya’s Nozhai-Yurt district on February 13 sent the Russian news agencies
Fighting Along Chechen-Dagestani Administrative Border Heaviest in Recent Years
The start of the large-scale special operation by the police, military and Federal Security Service (FSB) forces launched in Chechnya’s Nozhai-Yurt district on February 13 sent the Russian news agencies
What Will Come From The Clash Between Ramzan Kadyrov and Aleksei Navalny?
There was no sign anything sensational was in the offing during Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin’s visit to the forum of peoples of southern Russia held in Kislovodsk on January
What Will Come from the Clash Between Ramzan Kadyrov and Aleksei Navalny?
There was no sign anything sensational was in the offing during Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin’s visit to the forum of peoples of southern Russia held in Kislovodsk on January
North Caucasus Rebel Leader Tries to Capitalize on Russian Anti-Kremlin Protests
The leadership of the North Caucasian militants is attempting to capitalize on the rising tensions in Russian society. As popular protests against the return of Prime Minister Vladimir Putin to
North Caucasus Rebel Leader Tries to Capitalize on Russian Anti-Kremlin Protests
The leadership of the North Caucasian militants is attempting to capitalize on the rising tensions in Russian society. As popular protests against the return of Prime Minister Vladimir Putin to
Rebels in Ingushetia Step Up Activities Despite Blows to Leadership
Events in Ingushetia signal a possible increase in tensions in this North Caucasus republic after a nearly two year period of decline in militant activities. The decline in Ingush rebel
Rebels in Ingushetia Step Up Activities Despite Blows to Leadership
Events in Ingushetia signal a possible increase in tensions in this North Caucasus republic after a nearly two year period of decline in militant activities. The decline in Ingush rebel
Post-Mortem Analysis: A Brief Profile of North Caucasian Militant Commander Biaslan Gochiyaev
An ethnic Karachay, Biaslan Gochiyaev was born in the city of Cherkessk, Karachay-Cherkessia in 1984. Some sources allege that he was a relative of Achemez Gochiyaev. [1] The latter was
North Caucasus Authorities Unable to End Wave of Rebel and Criminal Extortion
The activities of the resistance movement in the North Caucasus have tended to spread unevenly across the region so far. The northeastern part of the Caucasus has certainly been leading
North Caucasus Authorities Unable to End Wave of Rebel and Criminal Extortion
The activities of the resistance movement in the North Caucasus have tended to spread unevenly across the region so far. The northeastern part of the Caucasus has certainly been leading
Fewer Killed in the North Caucasus Last Year, but Overall Situation Remains Unchanged
The Kavkazsky Uzel (Caucasian Knot) website has published the statistics for casualties in the North Caucasus in 2011. The figures, compiled using open sources, allow us to draw a range
Fewer Killed in the North Caucasus Last Year, but Overall Situation Remains Unchanged
The Kavkazsky Uzel (Caucasian Knot) website has published the statistics for casualties in the North Caucasus in 2011. The figures, compiled using open sources, allow us to draw a range
Rebels Battle Security Forces in Chechnya, While Moscow Bolsters the Military in the Republic
In accordance with a tradition that has been in place since 2005, Ramzan Kadyrov rang in 2012 with his estimate of the number of insurgents in Chechnya. Citing numerous operational
Rebels Battle Security Forces in Chechnya, While Moscow Bolsters the Military in the Republic
In accordance with a tradition that has been in place since 2005, Ramzan Kadyrov rang in 2012 with his estimate of the number of insurgents in Chechnya. Citing numerous operational
Putin Signals He Will Stick to the Status Quo in Chechnya
The end of 2011 saw another visit by Vladimir Putin to Chechnya. Putin’s first visit to Chechnya took place on December 31, 1999, while he was still serving as prime
Putin Signals He Will Stick to the Status Quo in Chechnya
The end of 2011 saw another visit by Vladimir Putin to Chechnya. Putin’s first visit to Chechnya took place on December 31, 1999, while he was still serving as prime
Developments In the North Caucasus In 2011: Moscow Has Little to Cheer About
The end of the year is the time to review the year’s events. In the case of the North Caucasus, we can safely conclude that Russian authorities stopped hiding the
Developments In the North Caucasus In 2011: Moscow Has Little to Cheer About
The end of the year is the time to review the year’s events. In the case of the North Caucasus, we can safely conclude that Russian authorities stopped hiding the
What Russian Statistics On Militant Attacks In the North Caucasus Reveal
It is common practice to summarize the year’s events at its conclusion. Following this tradition, we can consider the figures concerning the situation in the North Caucasus, which is not
What Russian Statistics On Militant Attacks In the North Caucasus Reveal
It is common practice to summarize the year’s events at its conclusion. Following this tradition, we can consider the figures concerning the situation in the North Caucasus, which is not
Closure of Dagestani Military Base Reflects Moscow’s Growing Weakness In the North Caucasus
After four years of operation, Russia has been forced to move their military base from Botlikh, Dagestan to Maikop, Adygea. The 33rd mountain infantry brigade will now permanently be stationed
Closure of Dagestani Military Base Reflects Moscow’s Growing Weakness In the North Caucasus
After four years of operation, Russia has been forced to move their military base from Botlikh, Dagestan to Maikop, Adygea. The 33rd mountain infantry brigade will now permanently be stationed
Migration Patterns in the North Caucasus Paint Dismal Picture for Moscow
The two wars in Chechnya and related political and economic instability were the primary reasons for the massive exodus of both Russian and non-ethnic Russians from the North Caucasus. Even
Migration Patterns in the North Caucasus Paint Dismal Picture for Moscow
The two wars in Chechnya and related political and economic instability were the primary reasons for the massive exodus of both Russian and non-ethnic Russians from the North Caucasus. Even
Murder of Sufi Sheikh Could Ignite Intra-Islamic Conflict In Dagestan
The recent murder of the Tabasaran sheikh of the Naqshbandi order, Sirajuddin Israfilov, has been extensively discussed in the North Caucasian media. Israfilov came from the village Khurik and so
Murder of Sufi Sheikh Could Ignite Intra-Islamic Conflict In Dagestan
The recent murder of the Tabasaran sheikh of the Naqshbandi order, Sirajuddin Israfilov, has been extensively discussed in the North Caucasian media. Israfilov came from the village Khurik and so
Kadyrov’s Chechnya Remains Highly Dependent on Russian Subsidies
On October 22, an officially permitted anti-Caucasian protest action – “Stop Feeding the Caucasus!” – was held in Moscow. Extensively advertised in both the government and liberal press, the rally
Kadyrov’s Chechnya Remains Highly Dependent on Russian Subsidies
On October 22, an officially permitted anti-Caucasian protest action – “Stop Feeding the Caucasus!” – was held in Moscow. Extensively advertised in both the government and liberal press, the rally
Assassination Campaign of Chechen Opposition Figures in Turkey Reaches New Level
Turkish media have been grappling with finding a solution to the mystery killing of three Chechens in broad daylight in one of the tourist districts of Istanbul on September 16
Assassination Campaign of Chechen Opposition Figures in Turkey Reaches New Level
Turkish media have been grappling with finding a solution to the mystery killing of three Chechens in broad daylight in one of the tourist districts of Istanbul on September 16
Security in Dagestan Continues to Deteriorate
The arrival of fall has not seen a decline in rebel attacks in Dagestan after a violent summer. Indeed, given the ferociousness of the daily battles between government forces and
Security in Dagestan Continues to Deteriorate
The arrival of fall has not seen a decline in rebel attacks in Dagestan after a violent summer. Indeed, given the ferociousness of the daily battles between government forces and
Soccer in the North Caucasus Is More Than Just Sport
It is not an accident that the city of Grozny’s annual festival is held on October 5, Ramzan Kadyrov’s birthday. This year, a building complex nicknamed Grozny-City will be inaugurated
Soccer in the North Caucasus Is More Than Just Sport
It is not an accident that the city of Grozny’s annual festival is held on October 5, Ramzan Kadyrov’s birthday. This year, a building complex nicknamed Grozny-City will be inaugurated
Plans To Build North Caucasus Ski Resorts: Why Paint The Fence If The House Is Burning?
Russia keeps bewildering the public with extravagant economic plans for the North Caucasus that are supposed to pacify the region. According to Russian officials, it is unemployment that is causing
Plans To Build North Caucasus Ski Resorts: Why Paint the Fence If The House Is Burning?
Russia keeps bewildering the public with extravagant economic plans for the North Caucasus that are supposed to pacify the region. According to Russian officials, it is unemployment that is causing
Killings In Istanbul Just the Latest In Series of Murders of Chechens Abroad
The first reports of the killing of three Chechens after Friday prayers in Istanbul on September 16, indicated the incident may have been linked to the Caucasus Emirate (www.interfax.ru, September
Killings In Istanbul Just the Latest In Series of Murders of Chechens Abroad
The first reports of the killing of three Chechens after Friday prayers in Istanbul on September 16, indicated the incident may have been linked to the Caucasus Emirate (www.interfax.ru, September
The Revival of Ingushetia’s Insurgency
Militants in Ingushetia have not been very active over the past year that is until quite recently. The break in insurgent activity was associated with the arrest of one of
The Revival of Ingushetia’s Insurgency
Militants in Ingushetia have not been very active over the past year that is until quite recently. The break in insurgent activity was associated with the arrest of one of
Suicide Attacks Continue to Plague the North Caucasus
On August 30, seven policemen, one person from the emergency situations ministry and a civilian died in a double suicide bomb attack in the Chechen capital Grozny that also left
Suicide Attacks Continue to Plague the North Caucasus
On August 30, seven policemen, one person from the emergency situations ministry and a civilian died in a double suicide bomb attack in the Chechen capital Grozny that also left
The North Caucasus’ Troubled August
It has become a tradition that August is an especially volatile month in the North Caucasus. This year has not been an exception, with the situation in the North Caucasus
The North Caucasus’ Troubled August
It has become a tradition that August is an especially volatile month in the North Caucasus. This year has not been an exception, with the situation in the North Caucasus
Moscow Promises North Caucasus Billions, as Low-Grade Insurgency Continues
Having failed to re-conquer the North Caucasus using force or realized the high price to be paid for such a conquest, Moscow is attempting to deprive regional nationalists and religious
Moscow Promises North Caucasus Billions, as Low-Grade Insurgency Continues
Having failed to re-conquer the North Caucasus using force or realized the high price to be paid for such a conquest, Moscow is attempting to deprive regional nationalists and religious
Is the North Caucasus Rebel Movement Spreading Beyond the North Caucasus?
Russian mass media last week spread word of a statement by the command of the Chechen rebels that referred to Riyadus-Salikhin (Gardens of the Righteous) in connection with the killing
Is the North Caucasus Rebel Movement Spreading Beyond the North Caucasus?
Russian mass media last week spread word of a statement by the command of the Chechen rebels that referred to Riyadus-Salikhin (Gardens of the Righteous) in connection with the killing
Dagestani Militant Leader Brokers Reconciliation Deal Between Chechen Commanders
The history of the conflict resembles a detective novel. One year ago, on July 24, 2010, Doku Umarov, in his capacity as leader of the armed resistance in the North
Dagestani Militant Leader Brokers Reconciliation Deal Between Chechen Commanders
The history of the conflict resembles a detective novel. One year ago, on July 24, 2010, Doku Umarov, in his capacity as leader of the armed resistance in the North
July Becomes a Hot Month for Moscow in Chechnya
News about increased military operations against rebels in Chechnya has unexpectedly been coming out of Chechnya over the last two months. What has been unusual about the reporting is that
July Becomes a Hot Month for Moscow in Chechnya
News about increased military operations against rebels in Chechnya has unexpectedly been coming out of Chechnya over the last two months. What has been unusual about the reporting is that
Moscow Launches Effort to “Chechenize” Dagestan
The Russian government is still looking for the ways to solve the armed resistance problem in the North Caucasus. The government, however, makes no attempt to understand the core issues
Moscow Launches Effort to “Chechenize” Dagestan
The Russian government is still looking for the ways to solve the armed resistance problem in the North Caucasus. The government, however, makes no attempt to understand the core issues
Moscow Renews Accusations Against Neighboring States for Harboring Chechen Fighters
Events in the North Caucasus today increasingly are forcing more experts to review their forecasts for this region as militant activities intensify and the mood in Russian society shifts. Today,
Moscow Renews Accusations Against Neighboring States for Harboring Chechen Fighters
Events in the North Caucasus today increasingly are forcing more experts to review their forecasts for this region as militant activities intensify and the mood in Russian society shifts. Today,
Cossacks versus Highlanders: Moscow Gambles on Tsarist Tactics in the North Caucasus
After the colonization of the North Caucasus by Russian troops in the eighteenth and nineteenth Centuries, Russia established Cossack settlements as a form of influence on the local populations. Serving
Cossacks versus Highlanders: Moscow Gambles on Tsarist Tactics in the North Caucasus
After the colonization of the North Caucasus by Russian troops in the eighteenth and nineteenth Centuries, Russia established Cossack settlements as a form of influence on the local populations. Serving
Medvedev Appoints a New Interior Minister for Ingushetia
Russian President Dmitry Medvedev continues to surprise everyone with his management reshuffle in the Russian interior ministry. This time it involved the North Caucasus as well. Major-General Aleksandr Trofimov, 48,
Medvedev Appoints a New Interior Minister for Ingushetia
Russian President Dmitry Medvedev continues to surprise everyone with his management reshuffle in the Russian interior ministry. This time it involved the North Caucasus as well. Major-General Aleksandr Trofimov, 48,
The State’s Embrace of Traditional Islam Puts Both In Danger
The issue of official support for “traditional Islam” to counterbalance radical Islam once again emerged as a pressing theme following the June 7 murder of the Head of the Institute
The State’s Embrace of Traditional Islam Puts Both In Danger
The issue of official support for “traditional Islam” to counterbalance radical Islam once again emerged as a pressing theme following the June 7 murder of the Head of the Institute
Endless Special Forces Operations Continue in the North Caucasus
The recent murder in broad daylight of the former commander of the 160th guard tank regiment in Chechnya, Yuri Budanov, in downtown Moscow once again returned the topic of Chechnya
Endless Special Forces Operations Continue in the North Caucasus
The recent murder in broad daylight of the former commander of the 160th guard tank regiment in Chechnya, Yuri Budanov, in downtown Moscow once again returned the topic of Chechnya
Despite Risks – Moscow Turns to Ski Resorts as Regional Panacea for the North Caucasus
Moscow no longer expects that the situation in the North Caucasus region will improve any time soon. Even the Russian presidential envoy to the North Caucasus Federal District, Aleksandr Khloponin,
Despite Risks – Moscow Turns to Ski Resorts as Regional Panacea for the North Caucasus
Moscow no longer expects that the situation in the North Caucasus region will improve any time soon. Even the Russian presidential envoy to the North Caucasus Federal District, Aleksandr Khloponin,
US Move Against Doku Umarov Will Have Little Impact on Militant Activities
May 2011 ended with a loud statement made by US President Barack Obama in Paris, in which he declared the leader of the North Caucasus-based armed resistance, Doku Umarov, a
US Move Against Doku Umarov Will Have Little Impact on Militant Activities
May 2011 ended with a loud statement made by US President Barack Obama in Paris, in which he declared the leader of the North Caucasus-based armed resistance, Doku Umarov, a
A Profile of Tarkhan Gaziev: The Third Man in Chechnya’s Rebel Troika
Tarkhan Gaziev is one of the most notable field commanders in Chechnya’s interminable rebellion against the Russian state. At various times during the second military campaign since 1999, he held
Arrests in Astrakhan Point to the Spread of Islamic Insurgency in Russia
The term “jamaat,” considered native to the North Caucasus in view of the operations undertaken there by the armed resistance, is clearly spreading beyond the region’s borders. The Russian special
Arrests in Astrakhan Point to the Spread of Islamic Insurgency in Russia
The term “jamaat,” considered native to the North Caucasus in view of the operations undertaken there by the armed resistance, is clearly spreading beyond the region’s borders. The Russian special
Elimination of Jamaat Leaders Has Little Impact on Situation in the North Caucasus
Russia’s ongoing intense military campaign in the North Caucasus does not seem to be confined to a single village, district or even republic. Given that the incessant special operations being
Elimination of Jamaat Leaders Has Little Impact on Situation in the North Caucasus
Russia’s ongoing intense military campaign in the North Caucasus does not seem to be confined to a single village, district or even republic. Given that the incessant special operations being
Moscow Kills Rebel Leaders in Kabardino-Balkaria, but was it a Mortal Blow?
April was an extremely successful month for the Russian security forces in the North Caucasus, following the liquidation of Israpil Validzhanov, the leader of the Dagestani jamaat on April 18,
Moscow Kills Rebel Leaders in Kabardino-Balkaria, but was it a Mortal Blow?
April was an extremely successful month for the Russian security forces in the North Caucasus, following the liquidation of Israpil Validzhanov, the leader of the Dagestani jamaat on April 18,
Amir Muhannad: The Last of Chechnya’s Arab Volunteers
The late Amir Muhannad, the North Caucasus’ recently killed Arab militant leader, hailed from the Medina area in Saudi Arabia’s western Hejaz region. Muhannad, born in 1969, was reportedly shot
Latest Russian Claims of Victory in North Caucasus Ring Hollow
The Russian propaganda machine described the death of each and every secondary member of the armed resistance movement in the North Caucasus as having done "irreparable damage to the insurgency."
Latest Russian Claims of Victory in North Caucasus Ring Hollow
The Russian propaganda machine described the death of each and every secondary member of the armed resistance movement in the North Caucasus as having done "irreparable damage to the insurgency."
Emir of Dagestan’s Sharia Jamaat Reportedly Killed in Russian Special Operation
Russia’s intelligence services reported on the night of April 18 that they had identified the body of Israpil Validzhanov, who was better known as Emir Hassan, the head of Dagestan’s
Emir of Dagestan’s Sharia Jamaat Reportedly Killed in Russian Special Operation
Russia’s intelligence services reported on the night of April 18 that they had identified the body of Israpil Validzhanov, who was better known as Emir Hassan, the head of Dagestan’s
Doku Umarov Says Rumors of His Death Are Greatly Exaggerated
As expected, Doku Umarov, the leader of the North Caucasus rebels, was not found among those killed near the village of Upper Alkun in the mountainous part of Ingushetia bordering
Doku Umarov Says Rumors of His Death Are Greatly Exaggerated
As expected, Doku Umarov, the leader of the North Caucasus rebels, was not found among those killed near the village of Upper Alkun in the mountainous part of Ingushetia bordering
Death of Umarov’s Successor Is a Major Setback to Rebel Movement
Following reports that Russian air and ground forces had killed 17 militants in an operation targeting a rebel base near the village of Upper Alkun in Ingushetia, Moscow waited with
Death of Umarov’s Successor Is a Major Setback to Rebel Movement
Following reports that Russian air and ground forces had killed 17 militants in an operation targeting a rebel base near the village of Upper Alkun in Ingushetia, Moscow waited with
The Specter of Shahids Continues to Haunt Russia
The Russian security services is now asserting that the massive terrorist attack at Moscow’s Domodedovo airport on January 24, in which 37 people were killed and 120 more injured, will
The Specter of Shahids Continues to Haunt Russia
The Russian security services is now asserting that the massive terrorist attack at Moscow’s Domodedovo airport on January 24, in which 37 people were killed and 120 more injured, will
The North Caucasus Slips Further into Chaos
The North Caucasus is increasingly reminiscent of the zone of military conflict where the situation is gradually approaching a critical point. News stories coming from the region – even those
The North Caucasus Slips Further into Chaos
The North Caucasus is increasingly reminiscent of the zone of military conflict where the situation is gradually approaching a critical point. News stories coming from the region – even those
Kabardino-Balkaria’s “Black Hawks:” Grassroots Vigilantes or FSB Surrogates?
Over the past month or so, the Russian media have been very actively reporting on the creation of an anti-Wahhabi paramilitary unit operating on the territory of Kabardino-Balkaria in response
Kabardino-Balkaria’s “Black Hawks:” Grassroots Vigilantes or FSB Surrogates?
Over the past month or so, the Russian media have been very actively reporting on the creation of an anti-Wahhabi paramilitary unit operating on the territory of Kabardino-Balkaria in response
Is Karachaevo-Cherkessia the Next North Caucasus Hot Spot?
The surprise visit of Russian President Dmitry Medvedev to Vladikavkaz on February 22, 2010 (www.rian.ru/politics/20110222/337349132.html) clearly shows how complicated the situation is in the region. The choice of cities in
Is Karachaevo-Cherkessia the Next North Caucasus Hot Spot?
The surprise visit of Russian President Dmitry Medvedev to Vladikavkaz on February 22, 2010 (www.rian.ru/politics/20110222/337349132.html) clearly shows how complicated the situation is in the region. The choice of cities in
The Separation of the North Caucasus from Russia: Is it A Growing Possibility?
The new act of terror committed by suicide bombers in Dagestan on February 14 appears to have been a continuation of a series of attacks across Russia carried out by
The Separation of the North Caucasus from Russia: Is it A Growing Possibility?
The new act of terror committed by suicide bombers in Dagestan on February 14 appears to have been a continuation of a series of attacks across Russia carried out by
Insurgent Activity Increases in the Northwestern Caucasus
In 2010, the western part of the North Caucasus, comprised of the territories of Karachaevo-Cherkessia, Adygea and the adjacent Black Sea littoral, gave little sign that it was following the
Insurgent Activity Increases in the Northwestern Caucasus
In 2010, the western part of the North Caucasus, comprised of the territories of Karachaevo-Cherkessia, Adygea and the adjacent Black Sea littoral, gave little sign that it was following the
Rebel Attacks in Kabardino-Balkaria Skyrocket
Amid reports by the Russian government that militant activity in Kabardino-Balkaria has increased four to five times (www.rosbalt.ru/2010/11/29/794929.html) –more than anywhere else in the North Caucasus region– local authorities are
Rebel Attacks in Kabardino-Balkaria Skyrocket
Amid reports by the Russian government that militant activity in Kabardino-Balkaria has increased four to five times (www.rosbalt.ru/2010/11/29/794929.html) –more than anywhere else in the North Caucasus region– local authorities are
A Portrait of Chechen Rebel Commander Hussein Gakaev
Background Hussein Vakhaevich Gakaev (a.k.a. Amir Mansur) was born on July 8, 1970, in the village of Kalinovskaya of the Naur district of the Chechen Republic bordering Mozdok, North Ossetia.
Ingush in 2010: The Insurgency Remains a Potent Force
According to independent sources, who summarized their findings based on reports that have been officially published in the media by Russian authorities, Ingushetia had the second largest number of victims
Ingush in 2010: The Insurgency Remains a Potent Force
According to independent sources, who summarized their findings based on reports that have been officially published in the media by Russian authorities, Ingushetia had the second largest number of victims
The Year in Chechnya: Reconstruction Marred by Lingering Insurgency and Inter-Chechen Conflict
Summing up the situation unfolding in Chechnya over the past year, it is worth noting that diametrically opposite processes took place in that part of the North Caucasus. Anyone who
The Year in Chechnya: Reconstruction Marred by Lingering Insurgency and Inter-Chechen Conflict
Summing up the situation unfolding in Chechnya over the past year, it is worth noting that diametrically opposite processes took place in that part of the North Caucasus. Anyone who
Moscow’s Position in the North Caucasus Worsened Dramatically in 2010
2010 turned out to be more difficult for Russia than the previous year in terms of its problems in the North Caucasus. Nearly all top Russian officials, including Russia’s president,
Moscow’s Position in the North Caucasus Worsened Dramatically in 2010
2010 turned out to be more difficult for Russia than the previous year in terms of its problems in the North Caucasus. Nearly all top Russian officials, including Russia’s president,
A Profile of Chechen Militant Commander Aslambek Vadalov: The Rising Star of Chechnya’s Separatist Movement
Chechen rebel commander Aslambek Vadalov (a.k.a. Amir Aslambek), who was briefly named as the leader of the North Caucasus rebels this past summer, is becoming a rising star of the
Moscow Considers Kabardino-Balkaria Jamaat as Threat to the North Caucasus
Speaking in the regional capital of Pyatigorsk on November 18, Russian Interior Minister, Rashid Nurgaliev, put Kabardino-Balkaria next to Dagestan and Ingushetia as the most dangerous places in the North
Moscow Considers Kabardino-Balkaria Jamaat as Threat to the North Caucasus
Speaking in the regional capital of Pyatigorsk on November 18, Russian Interior Minister, Rashid Nurgaliev, put Kabardino-Balkaria next to Dagestan and Ingushetia as the most dangerous places in the North
Arrests in Europe Place 100,000 Member Chechen Disapora in the Spotlight
Mass arrests of alleged terrorists in three European countries –Belgium, Holland and Germany– were shown live on TV in Holland and Belgium in late November. The campaign started with bold
Arrests in Europe Place 100,000 Member Chechen Disapora in the Spotlight
Mass arrests of alleged terrorists in three European countries –Belgium, Holland and Germany– were shown live on TV in Holland and Belgium in late November. The campaign started with bold
Dagestani Leadership Unable to Control Situation in Republic
Rebels from the Makhachkala sector of Dagestan’s Shariat Jamaat belatedly marked Russian Police Day, November 10, with a major attack in the republic’s capital, Makhachkala. The attack, which took place
Dagestani Leadership Unable to Control Situation in Republic
Rebels from the Makhachkala sector of Dagestan’s Shariat Jamaat belatedly marked Russian Police Day, November 10, with a major attack in the republic’s capital, Makhachkala. The attack, which took place
Moscow’s Approach to the North Caucasus Looks Increasingly Deluded
Russian Interior Minister Rashid Nurgaliev had to admit recently that 454 terrorist acts and 510 offenses of extremist nature were committed in Russia in the first nine months of 2010.
Moscow’s Approach to the North Caucasus Looks Increasingly Deluded
Russian Interior Minister Rashid Nurgaliev had to admit recently that 454 terrorist acts and 510 offenses of extremist nature were committed in Russia in the first nine months of 2010.
Dagestan Leader Follows Steps of Kadyrov
Actions taken recently by the local leadership in Dagestan have become increasingly reminiscent of the policy carried out by Ramzan Kadyrov, the pro-Russian leader of Chechnya. Shortly after an all-Chechen
Dagestan Leader Follows Steps of Kadyrov
Actions taken recently by the local leadership in Dagestan have become increasingly reminiscent of the policy carried out by Ramzan Kadyrov, the pro-Russian leader of Chechnya. Shortly after an all-Chechen
Insurgents in Ingushetia Regroup as Local Jammats Become More Nationalist
Since the beginning of fall 2010 a tide of kidnappings of young people accused of participating in the armed underground has swept Ingushetia. On October 22, three young Ingush were
Insurgents in Ingushetia Regroup as Local Jammats Become More Nationalist
Since the beginning of fall 2010 a tide of kidnappings of young people accused of participating in the armed underground has swept Ingushetia. On October 22, three young Ingush were
Attack on Parliament in Grozny: Gain or Loss for the Rebels?
The attack perpetrated by four Chechen suicide bombers or shahids in downtown Grozny on October 19th, 2010 struck everyone by surprise. An explosion occurred early in the morning around 8:45
Attack on Parliament in Grozny: Gain or Loss for the Rebels?
The attack perpetrated by four Chechen suicide bombers or shahids in downtown Grozny on October 19th, 2010 struck everyone by surprise. An explosion occurred early in the morning around 8:45
Factional Divisions within the Chechen Separatist Movement
The summer and fall of 2010 have not been pleasant for the leadership of the Chechen armed resistance movement. A split in the supreme leadership was for a period of
Factional Divisions within the Chechen Separatist Movement
The summer and fall of 2010 have not been pleasant for the leadership of the Chechen armed resistance movement. A split in the supreme leadership was for a period of
Abkhaz Muslims Become Target of Kremlin’s Hidden War
Since little statistical data exists, it is rather difficult to calculate the exact number or relative percentages of Muslims and Christians living in today’s Abkhazia. The leadership of the Russian
Abkhaz Muslims Become Target of Kremlin’s Hidden War
Since little statistical data exists, it is rather difficult to calculate the exact number or relative percentages of Muslims and Christians living in today’s Abkhazia. The leadership of the Russian
The Caucasus Emirate: a Strictly Home-Grown Movement
After a split occurred in the North Caucasus armed resistance movement among the Chechen Jamaat, media and pseudo-analysts once again started to actively talk about Chechen connections with al-Qaeda. Over
The Caucasus Emirate: a Strictly Home-Grown Movement
After a split occurred in the North Caucasus armed resistance movement among the Chechen Jamaat, media and pseudo-analysts once again started to actively talk about Chechen connections with al-Qaeda. Over
Separatism Spreads in the North Caucasus while Moscow Blames Outsiders
Many observers have noticed that the situation in the North Caucasus is further deteriorating against the backdrop of two recent suicide bombings in the region, despite complacent reports of Russian
The North Caucasus in 2009: Security Situation Worsened for Moscow
A massive flurry of official statements was released to the Russian mass media by politicians, analysts, and experts on Russia summing up the year 2009 in the North Caucasus. After
Rebel Ideologue Vows More Frequent Attacks on “Russian Occupiers”
The year ended unexpectedly for Dagestan’s Sharia Jamaat. Completely by accident, a group of Khasavyurt city policemen encountered a car that disregarded their demands to stop. As a result of
New Federal District Will Not Stabilize the North Caucasus
Against the backdrop of the unavailing year in 2009 for Russian soldiers in the North Caucasus, Moscow is trying to explain to the Russian people why other countries want to
Despite Official PR, North Caucasus Situation Remains Volatile
Against the backdrop of Moscow’s attempts to find new ways of changing the situation in the North Caucasus one can observe the militants becoming more active in the region. In
Yevkurov’s Bloody Ramsons
A special operation in the vicinity of settlements of Arshty and Dattykh ended along the lines of a classic phrase authored by former Russian Prime Minister Viktor Chernomyrdin: “We wanted
Separatism Spreads in the North Caucasus while Moscow Blames Outsiders
Many observers have noticed that the situation in the North Caucasus is further deteriorating against the backdrop of two recent suicide bombings in the region, despite complacent reports of Russian
Son of Former President of Dagestan Named to Head the Republic
Dagestan’s new president-elect, Magomedsalam Magomedov, is the son of the republic’s former leader, Magomedali Magomedov. The younger Magomedov became the head of Dagestan’s parliament after Mukhu Aliev was elected the
Russia’s President Visits North Caucasus Offering No Real Solution to its Main Problem
In the eleventh year of conflict in the North Caucasus, the Russian leadership intends (yet again) to radically change the situation to its advantage. With this intent, on February 27,
Killing of Said Buryatsky Unlikely to Deter North Caucasus Insurgency
A key event in early March, was the death of one of the chief ideologues of the armed resistance in the North Caucasus, Said Buryatsky (Aleksandr Tikhomirov) (www.1tv.ru, March 5).
Suicide Bombers Further Destabilize Dagestan
August 2010 saw violent incidents all across Russia’s North Caucasus region, above all in Dagestan, where rebels and Russian police dealt heavy blows to each other. On August 21, forces
The Specter of Suicide Bombing Haunts the North Caucasus
Just four days after the September 5 suicide bombing in Buinaksk, Dagestan, reportedly carried out by Zamir Terekbaev, a 26-year-old resident of the village of Andrei-Kurgan in the Neftekumsky district
The Specter of Suicide Bombing Haunts the North Caucasus
Just four days after the September 5 suicide bombing in Buinaksk, Dagestan, reportedly carried out by Zamir Terekbaev, a 26-year-old resident of the village of Andrei-Kurgan in the Neftekumsky district
Kadyrov Refuses Police Units From Regions Beyond Chechnya
Chechen President Ramzan Kadyrov has refused the services of policemen assigned to Chechnya (www.kp.ru, March 14). It is his first truly significant move since the counter-terrorist operation (CTO) in Chechnya
Suicide Attacks in Moscow are Part of an Upsurge in Attacks by North Caucasus Militants
Unfortunately, the terrorist attacks committed in the Moscow metro early in the morning of March 29 were not the first and there is no reason to assume they will be
Death of Anzor Astemirov Does not Mark the End of the Insurgency in Kabardino-Balkaria
The end of March 2010 turned out to be eventful in the North Caucasus. First of all, on March 24 the leader of Kabardino-Balkaria’s Yarmuk Jamaat, Anzor Astemirov, was killed
The Locus of Instability in the North Caucasus Shifts to Dagestan
President Dmitry Medvedev visited Dagestan on April 1, in an attempt to show his own country and the world that he views militant attacks in Moscow and in the remote
Moscow Looks to Cossacks to Deal With North Caucasus Instability
The Cossacks first appeared in the Caucasus as they fled their masters in Russia. Hiding in the foothills of the North Caucasus, they absorbed many elements of the lifestyle of
The Radicals Among the North Caucasus Rebels Appear to Have Gained the Upper Hand
Russian Interior Minister, Rashid Nurgaliev, during a visit to the Chechen capital Grozny on April 24, told a meeting he organized there that attempts might be made to commit terrorist
Yarmuk Jammat Regroups after Death of Astemirov in Sign of new Militant Strategy
Nalchik, the capital city of Kabardino-Balkaria in Russia’s North Caucasus, has been hit be a series of bombings. Explosives were detonated on May 1, during May Day festivities at the
Suicide Bombers Further Destabilize Dagestan
August 2010 saw violent incidents all across Russia’s North Caucasus region, above all in Dagestan, where rebels and Russian police dealt heavy blows to each other. On August 21, forces
Violence Accompanies Russia’s May Holidays in the North Caucasus
Russia’s tendency to govern the national republics of the North Caucasus as its patrimonial estates has long been the major cause for uprisings in the region. It is in line
Rebel Attacks on the Rise in Kabardino-Balkaria
The uneasy situation in Russia’s Kabardino-Balkaria republic in the troubled North Caucasus region has been making headlines over the past month. Most often it is about armed assaults and explosions
Chechen Fighters Hold their Ground Against Kadyrov
North Caucasus rebels have recently intensified their activity in Russia’s Kabardino-Balkaria and Dagestan republics, and Chechnya does not seem to be an exception. Chechnya’s leader, Ramzan Kadyrov, made yet another
“Palace Coup” Reveals Split between Umarov and Rebel Commander Aslanbek Vadalov
The past week was filled with surprising and confusing changes in the leadership of the North Caucasus rebels. First, Doku Umarov’s plan to appoint a successor as leader of the
The Situation Inside the North Caucasus Rebel Leadership Remains Unclear
This past week brought little clarity as to whether Doku Umarov in fact resigned or not from his position as the leader of the North Caucasus rebels. It still remains
The Situation Inside the North Caucasus Rebel Leadership Remains Unclear
This past week brought little clarity as to whether Doku Umarov in fact resigned or not from his position as the leader of the North Caucasus rebels. It still remains
“Palace Coup” Reveals Split between Umarov and Rebel Commander Aslanbek Vadalov
The past week was filled with surprising and confusing changes in the leadership of the North Caucasus rebels. First, Doku Umarov’s plan to appoint a successor as leader of the
Caucasus Emirate Leader Chooses a Successor
In response to the thunderous and inconsequential pronouncements made by Russia’s power structures and top-ranking officials about the situation in the North Caucasus, rebel groups there have been striking Russian
Caucasus Emirate Leader Chooses a Successor
In response to the thunderous and inconsequential pronouncements made by Russia’s power structures and top-ranking officials about the situation in the North Caucasus, rebel groups there have been striking Russian
Veteran of Anti-Russian Wars named as Head of Dagestan’s Sharia Jamaat
Dagestan’s Sharia Jamaat acquired a new leader this past week, six months after the death on the night of December 31, 2009 of the previous Emir al-Bar (aka Umalat Magomedov).
Veteran of Anti-Russian Wars named as Head of Dagestan’s Sharia Jamaat
Dagestan’s Sharia Jamaat acquired a new leader this past week, six months after the death on the night of December 31, 2009 of the previous Emir al-Bar (aka Umalat Magomedov).
The Russian Question and the Return of Suicide Bombers in the North Caucasus
After a six-week lull, the Chechen capital Grozny has once again experienced another suicide bombing attack. On the evening of June 30, a suicide bomber attempted to enter the Grozny
Kremlin Offers Money and Financial Incentives to Change the Mood in the North Caucasus
Russia seems to be poised to invest big money in the North Caucasus in an effort to reduce the intensity of rebel activities there. But the target group of Russia’s
Kremlin Offers Money and Financial Incentives to Change the Mood in the North Caucasus
Russia seems to be poised to invest big money in the North Caucasus in an effort to reduce the intensity of rebel activities there. But the target group of Russia’s
Who Was Behind the Recent Bombing in Stavropol?
Against the background of Chechen President, Ramzan Kadyrov’s, growing concerns about the number of rebels operating throughout Chechnya (EDM, May 28), it has been decided in the capital Grozny to
The Russian Question and the Return of Suicide Bombers in the North Caucasus
After a six-month lull, the Chechen capital Grozny has once again experienced another suicide bombing attack. On the evening of June 30, a suicide bomber attempted to enter the Grozny
Dagestan’s Security Situation is Becoming Hopeless
The first days of June in Dagestan have been especially disturbing for the local and federal authorities. Unidentified gunmen opened fire at the Atashka roadside café in the village of
Moscow’s Biggest Victory over the North Caucasus Rebels Since Fall 2000
The Federal Security Service (FSB) of the Russian Federation announced that on June 9, the leader of the Ingush Jamaat, Emir Magas (aka, Ahmed Yevloev or Ali Taziev), was captured
Success Eludes the Presidential Envoy to the North Caucasus
Six months after Aleksandr Khloponin was appointed as the Russian president’s envoy to the specially created North Caucasus Federal District, it can be safely concluded that he has not brought
US Designation of Caucasus Emirate Leader as Terrorist Will Have Little Impact
The US and Russian presidents’ nibbling at hamburgers has had little, if any, effect on the situation in the North Caucasus. Even the US State Department’s decision to designate Doku
US Designation of Caucasus Emirate Leader as Terrorist Will Have Little Impact
The US and Russian presidents’ nibbling at hamburgers has had little, if any, effect on the situation in the North Caucasus. Even the US State Department’s decision to designate Doku
Success Eludes the Presidential Envoy to the North Caucasus
Six months after Aleksandr Khloponin was appointed as the Russian president’s envoy to the specially created North Caucasus Federal District, it can be safely concluded that he has not brought
Moscow’s Biggest Victory over the North Caucasus Rebels Since Fall 2000
The Federal Security Service (FSB) of the Russian Federation announced that on June 9, the leader of the Ingush Jamaat, Emir Magas (aka, Ahmed Yevloev or Ali Taziev), was captured
Dagestan’s Security Situation is Becoming Hopeless
The first days of June in Dagestan have been especially disturbing for the local and federal authorities. Unidentified gunmen opened fire at the Atashka roadside café in the village of
Who Was Behind the Recent Bombing in Stavropol?
Against the background of Chechen President, Ramzan Kadyrov’s, growing concerns about the number of rebels operating throughout Chechnya (EDM, May 28), it has been decided in the capital Grozny to
Chechen Fighters Hold their Ground Against Kadyrov
North Caucasus rebels have recently intensified their activity in Russia’s Kabardino-Balkaria and Dagestan republics, and Chechnya does not seem to be an exception. Chechnya’s leader, Ramzan Kadyrov, made yet another
Rebel Attacks on the Rise in Kabardino-Balkaria
The uneasy situation in Russia’s Kabardino-Balkaria republic in the troubled North Caucasus region has been making headlines over the past month. Most often it is about armed assaults and explosions
Violence Accompanies Russia’s May Holidays in the North Caucasus
Russia’s tendency to govern the national republics of the North Caucasus as its patrimonial estates has long been the major cause for uprisings in the region. It is in line
Yarmuk Jammat Regroups after Death of Astemirov in Sign of new Militant Strategy
Nalchik, the capital city of Kabardino-Balkaria in Russia’s North Caucasus, has been hit be a series of bombings. Explosives were detonated on May 1, during May Day festivities at the
Moscow Looks to Cossacks to Deal With North Caucasus Instability
The Cossacks first appeared in the Caucasus as they fled their masters in Russia. Hiding in the foothills of the North Caucasus, they absorbed many elements of the lifestyle of
The Locus of Instability in the North Caucasus Shifts to Dagestan
President Dmitry Medvedev visited Dagestan on April 1, in an attempt to show his own country and the world that he views militant attacks in Moscow and in the remote
Death of Anzor Astemirov Does not Mark the End of the Insurgency in Kabardino-Balkaria
The end of March 2010 turned out to be eventful in the North Caucasus. First of all, on March 24 the leader of Kabardino-Balkaria’s Yarmuk Jamaat, Anzor Astemirov, was killed
Suicide Attacks in Moscow are Part of an Upsurge in Attacks by North Caucasus Militants
Unfortunately, the terrorist attacks committed in the Moscow metro early in the morning of March 29 were not the first and there is no reason to assume they will be
Kadyrov Refuses Police Units From Regions Beyond Chechnya
Chechen President Ramzan Kadyrov has refused the services of policemen assigned to Chechnya (www.kp.ru, March 14). It is his first truly significant move since the counter-terrorist operation (CTO) in Chechnya
Killing of Said Buryatsky Unlikely to Deter North Caucasus Insurgency
A key event in early March, was the death of one of the chief ideologues of the armed resistance in the North Caucasus, Said Buryatsky (Aleksandr Tikhomirov) (www.1tv.ru, March 5).
Russia’s President Visits North Caucasus Offering No Real Solution to its Main Problem
In the eleventh year of conflict in the North Caucasus, the Russian leadership intends (yet again) to radically change the situation to its advantage. With this intent, on February 27,
Son of Former President of Dagestan Named to Head the Republic
Dagestan’s new president-elect, Magomedsalam Magomedov, is the son of the republic’s former leader, Magomedali Magomedov. The younger Magomedov became the head of Dagestan’s parliament after Mukhu Aliev was elected the
Yevkurov’s Bloody Ramsons
A special operation in the vicinity of settlements of Arshty and Dattykh ended along the lines of a classic phrase authored by former Russian Prime Minister Viktor Chernomyrdin: “We wanted
Despite Official PR, North Caucasus Situation Remains Volatile
Against the backdrop of Moscow’s attempts to find new ways of changing the situation in the North Caucasus one can observe the militants becoming more active in the region. In
Appointment of New Kremlin Envoy to the North Caucasus Causes Concern for Kadyrov
The appointment of Aleksandr Khloponin to the position of presidential envoy to the newly formed North Caucasus Federal District marked the beginning of a new era for the North Caucasus
New Federal District Will Not Stabilize the North Caucasus
Against the backdrop of the unavailing year in 2009 for Russian soldiers in the North Caucasus, Moscow is trying to explain to the Russian people why other countries want to
North Ossetian-born General Appointed to Head North Caucasus Military District
In continuation of our last article on Russia that summed up the year 2009 in the North Caucasus (www.jamestown.org/single/?no_cache=1&tx_ttnews[tt_news]=35895), it is worth mentioning that Dmitry Medvedev has drawn his own
Rebel Ideologue Vows More Frequent Attacks on “Russian Occupiers”
The year ended unexpectedly for Dagestan’s Sharia Jamaat. Completely by accident, a group of Khasavyurt city policemen encountered a car that disregarded their demands to stop. As a result of
The North Caucasus in 2009: Security Situation Worsened for Moscow
A massive flurry of official statements was released to the Russian mass media by politicians, analysts, and experts on Russia summing up the year 2009 in the North Caucasus. After
Former Militant Group Re-establishes Itself in Karachaevo-Cherkessia
December 11 marked the anniversary of the beginning of the first Chechen War. It was then, in December 1994, that President Boris Yeltsin decided to militarily force the Chechen people
Train Bombing Part of North Caucasus Rebels’ Bid to Widen Insurgency
A series of terrorist attacks on Russian railroads in November, including the bombing of the Nevsky Express, which killed 27 people, made many wonder who would take such bold actions
The Security Situation in Dagestan Continues to Deteriorate
The situation in Dagestan, one of the largest republics in North Caucasus, has remained markedly tense. Along with the problem of armed resistance, there are several other burning issues, inter-ethnic
The North Caucasus Remains Russia’s Perpetual Problem Region
The resounding speech made by Russian President Dmitry Medvedev in his annual address to the country’s parliament had no impact whatsoever on the situation in the North Caucasus (www.kremlin.ru, November
Medvedev’s Questionable Plan to Form a Government Post in Charge of the North Caucasus
In his annual State of the Nation address to the Federal Assembly on November 12, President Dmitry Medvedev spent a whole section of his speech talking about the situation in
Ingushetia’s President Loses his Luster in his First Year in Office
October 31 marked exactly a year since Yunus-bek Yevkurov was appointed as President of Ingushetia. Yevkurov replaced Murat Zyazikov, who was removed by Moscow (www.ingushetia.kavkaz-uzel.ru, October 31, 2008). The change
Moscow and Grozny Evince Growing Nervousness Over Regional Security
Today, all Russia’s actions in the south are dictated by the increasingly active armed underground in the North Caucasus and Russia’s desire to oppose its growing influence on the region’s
Kadyrov Exaggerating the Threat of Suicide Attacks Backfires
Chechen authorities are increasingly reporting successes in operations against suicide bombers. Official data suggests that the number of suicide bombers has increased exponentially and that they are now occurring everywhere.
Moscow Struggles to Stabilize Ingushetia
The Kremlin is maintaining its policy of trying to impose “external” rule on Ingushetia. The individual assigned to the post of prime minister of the republic is not only an
FSB Assigned Control Over Operations in Chechnya and the North Caucasus
Events in Chechnya have once again grabbed the headlines this week. Most notable among them was the review of activities for the years of 2003 through 2008 undertaken at an
An Azeri Jamaat or a Jamaat in Azerbaijan?
One of the trends surfacing in news reports about the North Caucasus insurgency this year is the presence of Azeri fighters within the rebel ranks. Chechnya’s president Ramzan Kadyrov also
Adygeya: the New North Caucasus Hot Spot?
With the Adygeya jamaat announcing their intent to swear loyalty to Dokka Umarov, the chain of regional underground resistance groups has been completed and now spans the North Caucasus continuously
Ingush Rebels Extend an Olive Branch to Sufis
The latest move by the insurgency in the North Caucasus was not entirely unexpected. It has finally dawned on the rebel leadership of the Caucasus Emirate that waging a war
Dagestan Follows in Chechnya’s Footsteps
Chechnya's experience under the leadership of Ramzan Kadyrov -that is, the ostensible rule of law and order with the local police force seemingly in full control of the situation- could
Chechen Government Inadequately Prepared for Suicide Bombers
As Russian President Dmitry Medvedev finally had to admit, the situation in the North Caucasus is slowly changing for the worse and not for the better (Prime-Tass, August 19). Medvedev's
More Russian Troops Headed to Ingushetia
According to independent sources, several additional Russian army units are headed to the special-operations zone where the insurgency in Ingushetia has mounted relentless strikes (www.ingushetia.ru, August 14). As these troops
Black Thursday in the North Caucasus
Last Thursday was Dagestan's deadliest day in recent years. While all three North Caucasus republics of Chechnya, Ingushetia and Dagestan reported deadly clashes between insurgents and police forces that day,
Center of Rebel Strikes Shifts to Eastern Dagestan
Public discourse in Dagestan is currently dominated by the subject of two anniversaries: last year's occupation of Georgian territory by Russian troops in August 2008, and the tenth anniversary of
Moscow Increasingly Frustrated With Grozny
The federal government in Moscow may be growing increasingly frustrated with the Chechen leadership. Despite frequently repeated and vocal claims that life in Chechnya has returned to normal, in reality
Dagestani President Chooses the Republic’s New Interior Minister
Almost a month and a half after the assassination of Dagestan's Interior Minister Police General Adilgerei Magomedtagirov on June 5, the federal government finally chose his replacement. The new minister
North Caucasus Authorities Engaging in Collective Punishment
The wave of escalating operations by insurgents coupled with a number of high-profile murders and assassination attempts in June has pushed Russia into launching a campaign of pressure aimed at
Kabardino-Balkaria: Another North Caucasus Hot Spot?
Today, the northwestern part of the North Caucasus region (comprised of the republics of Kabardino-Balkaria, Karachaevo-Cherkessia and Adygeya) is increasingly becoming one large battlefield. An affluent resort area during the
Suicide Attacker Battalion Resurfaces
On June 22, at 8.30 am, a suicide attacker crashed his explosives-filled Toyota into the vehicle carrying the president of Ingushetia, Yunus-Bek Yevkurov, as the presidential motorcade was passing by
Can Kadyrov Deliver on his Vow to Crush Chechnya’s Insurgency in Two Weeks?
In a nationally televised address on June 17, Chechen President Ramzan Kadyrov came down hard on Chechnya's law enforcement agencies for the inadequate results they showed in capturing the rebels
Murder of Ingush Judge Tied to Proceedings for 2004 Rebel Attack
The high-profile assassination of Dagestan's Interior Minister, police Lieutenant-General Adilgerei Magomedtagirov, on June 5 - responsibility for which was claimed personally by the commander of the Gimry Jamaat, Ibragim Gadzhidadaev
North Caucasus Hit by Wave of High-Profile Assassinations
Reports from the North Caucasus suggest that the region's armed resistance movement remains highly active and - given the news of several high-profile assassinations in the region this past week
Ramzan Kadyrov Squashes the Idea of an Independent Ichkeria
For the second time in the last three months, Chechen President Ramzan Kadyrov has forced former leaders of the separatist Chechen Republic of Ichkeria to admit the error of their
The Hunt for Rebels in Chechnya and Ingushetia Enters a Second Week
Military operations targeting rebel fighters in Chechnya and Ingushetia were conducted between May 17-24 near the villages of Bamut and Alkhasty in the Assa river valley, which serves as a
Military Action Underway Across the Northeast Caucasus
For the first time in recent years, joint military and police operations targeting fighters of the armed resistance are underway simultaneously in all three republics of the Northeast Caucasus: Dagestan,
The North Caucasus Remains Combustible
Events in the North Caucasus today are still closely tied to the boundaries established in the 19th century, when the natives’ resistance to the Russian Empire was channeled into two
Moscow and Grozny Maintain the Illusion that the War has Ended
Several weeks after the official announcement of the end of the counter-terrorist operation in Chechnya on April 16, little has changed in the region. It is evident that the situation
Dagestan’s Sharia Jamaat Gets a New Leader
For nearly two months after the death of the last leader of Dagestan’s Sharia Jamaat, Emir Muaz (Umar Sheikhullaev), who was killed in Leninkent, a suburb of the Dagestani capital
The Cancellation of Counter-Terrorism Operation in Chechnya: Peace or War?
The Russian authorities have been trying to present the cancellation of the counter-terrorist operation as a victory over unruly Chechnya (Interfax, April 16). Yet, some 18 years have passed since
The Mysterious Assassination of Sulim Yamadaev
On the evening of March 28, the Chechen community in the United Arab Emirates (UAE)—which is approximately 2,000-3,000 strong—was abuzz with the news of the assassination attempt on Sulim Yamadaev
Ingushetia’s Yevkurov Strives to Strengthen His Regime
Events in Ingushetia this past week again forced the Russian mass media to broadcast news about daily violent incidents, making it difficult to agree with the republic’s president, Yunus-Bek Yevkurov,
Chechnya Ordered To Be “Peaceful”
Chechnya was back in the spotlight at the end of last week because of the announcements made by its president, Ramzan Kadyrov, with regard to the fate of the counter-terrorist
New War Zone Emerges in Southern Dagestan
Reports about armed encounters have been streaming in from Dagestan for the past week. For three days, the Russian army jointly with the Federal Security Service (FSB) and Dagestan’s Interior
Ingush Insurgency Approaches Major Crossroads
Militant actions in Ingushetia increasingly are bearing the signs of an uncompromising struggle against the authorities. At times, the news reports from this republic resemble wartime chronicles. The daily news
Russia No Longer Controls the Situation in Dagestan
The events taking place in the largest North Caucasian republic raise serious questions about the degree of control that the local authorities—and primarily the law enforcement agencies led by Dagestani
Dokka Umarov Suffers Setback in Turkey
When Chechen refugees leave Russia to settle in foreign countries, they are mainly concerned with the physical safety of their family members. However, over the years, members of the Chechen
Wave of Unrest and Counter-Terrorist Operations Sweep the North Caucasus
Russia’s special services and police this past week resumed anti-terrorist operations against the members of the armed resistance movement across the North Caucasus. A steady stream of news has been
Ingush Authorities Blame Insurgency on Arabs and U.S. Intelligence
Yunus-bek Yevkurov marked his first 100 days as president of the Republic of Ingushetia in a somber atmosphere. During the past week, the authorities in Ingushetia, including the president, searched
Dagestan’s Sharia Jamaat Suffers Series of Setbacks
Events in the Republic of Dagestan—one of the most unstable republics in the North Caucasus region—are again demanding attention. This time, however, what is noteworthy are not the usual reports
Kadyrov Courts Akhmed Zakaev
The end of 2008 and the beginning of 2009 were marked by yet another flurry of media reports surrounding the key Chechen resistance movement political figure, Akhmed Zakaev.Zakaev is the
Ingushetia’s New President Faces an Uphill Battle
The appointment of Yunus-bek Yevkurov, the career military intelligence officer with experience in the Kosovo (1999) and Chechnya (2000) wars, as the president of Ingushetia, the smallest North Caucasian republic,
Chechnya Starts the New Year on a Tense Note
After numerous statements by various ministers in Chechen President Ramzan Kadyrov’s government regarding the victories that they scored in 2008 in Chechnya (https://www.grozny-inform.ru/), 2009 began with unpleasant news streaming in
North Caucasus Insurgency Attracting Mainly Young and Committed Members
The profiles of those who join the ranks of the resistance fighters in the North Caucasus have often been young and for the most part either come from rural areas
A Look Back at Insurgent Activities in the North Caucasus in 2008
The results of 2008 for the North Caucasian resistance movement are ambiguous. Against the backdrop of militant activities by the jamaats of Ingushetia and Dagestan—and also compared with the somewhat
Chechen Interior Minister Tries to Play Down the Insurgency
At a meeting with the heads of the combat detachments of Chechnya’s district and municipal internal affairs departments on December 5, Chechnya’s interior minister, Police Lieutenant General Ruslan Alkhanov, said
Militant Actions Shake Up Dagestan
The frequency of militant actions carried out by the members of the Sharia Jamaat in Dagestan increased drastically in late November and early December. Practically not a day goes by
Kadyrov Claims Demise of Insurgency: Rebels Respond with Wave of New Attacks
Right after Chechen President Ramzan Kadyrov’s sensational statement that he was unable to find a single militant in Chechnya (Radio Ekho Moskvy, November 15)—which he attributed to the fact that
Dagestan’s Sharia Jamaat Expands and Reorganizes
It is possible even with a cursory glance at militant activities in the North Caucasus to see clearly that their main zones of action remain—for the second year in a
Russia Admits Rebel Fighter Activity in Chechnya
Faced with recurring reports of assaults and assassinations in Grozny and the rest of Chechnya, Russian government officials are being forced to admit that rebel fighter operations have become a
Dagestani Jamaat Expands Operations into Azerbaijan
Everything started last August 17 with the explosion at the Abu Bekir mosque in Baku. This mosque is considered a meeting place for those who adhere to the Salafi ideology.
The Demise of Murat Zyazikov
Ingushetia is celebrating. People in the streets are participating in folk dances to commemorate the resignation of the president of Republic of Ingushetia, Murat Zyazikov. On October 30, the president
Death of Dagestan’s Sharia Jamaat Leader Fails to Halt Rebel Attacks
The position of top commander in Dagestan’s Sharia Jamaat has been vacant for a month now since the death of its former leader Abdul-Majjid on September 8th near the Dagestan-Azeri
Violence in Ingushetia Continues to Intensify
Last week’s events saw the wave of high-profile murders rumbling through the North Caucasus continue, with Ingushetia again leading the way. Valentina Miroshnichenko, wife of the deputy mayor of Ordzhonikidzevskaya,
Rebels Reportedly Kill Dozens of Servicemen in Ingushetia
Following the capture of the foothill villages of Muzhichi and Yandare in Ingushetia on the evening of October 16 (North Caucasus Weekly, October 16), militants from the Ingush Jamaat “Shariat”
Kadyrov’s Power and Cult of Personality Grows
Chechnya has been literally shaken this month. According to Russian sources, 25 tremors were registered in Chechnya on October 11-12 alone (Novye Izvestia, October 13). The epicenter of the strongest
Autumn in the North Caucasus Means Increase in Rebel Attacks
Militants in the North Caucasus often strike in the autumn, and October this year has not been an exception. Attacks on the structures and personnel of Russia’s Interior Ministry, Defense
Pro-Moscow Authorities Terrorize Families of Chechen Militants
The authorities in Grozny, the capital of Chechnya, are trying hard to present a rosy picture of the situation on the ground. The many public holidays are interspersed with reports
Ingushetia on the Brink of War
Since the start of October, there have been a record number of attacks against the government in Ingushetia. The situation raises the questions of what is really happening in this
Karachaevo-Cherkessia Faces Renewed Militant Activity
The new president of Karachaevo-Cherkessia Boris Ebzeyev inherited the old problems from his predecessor Mustafa Batdiev. The new head of the republic is a very famous person. As a member
Russian Media Fails to Conceal New Upsurge in Militant Activity
Recent developments in the North Caucasus covered in the mass media focused primarily on Dagestan and Ingushetia. The first news item, concerning the assassination of the Dagestan Jamaat (Dagestan section
The Chechen Reaction to the Georgian Crisis
The August 2008 events in Georgia have been interpreted in various ways both in the world generally and in the republics of Russia’s North Caucasus that neighbor Georgia. Leaving aside
Two Yevloevs in Ingushetia are Too Much for the Russian Government
The disturbing news circulated in the mass media on Sunday, August 31, forced many to think again about the North Caucasus, a region where assassinations have long become the norm
Moscow Faces a Sea of Troubles in the Caucasus
It appears that Chechen President Ramzan Kadyrov still has not given up his ambition to crush his old rival Lieutenant Colonel Sulim Yamadaev, commander of the Vostok battalion (a Russian
Russia Chagrined by U.S. Attempts to Court Russian Muslim Clerics
The U.S. Department of State has found itself in an awkward position. The invitation to visit the United States that it extended to Russia’s muftis under the auspices of “Islam
From Derbent to Nazran: Rebels Step up Attacks in the North Caucasus
This summer, which was discussed with much fear in the offices of the pro-Moscow authorities in the North Caucasus as well as among the top brass of the Russian armed
Political Chaos Reigns in the North Caucasus
Despite Russia’s failure over the last nine years to put an end to the conflict in the North Caucasus and the continuing political chaos in the region, it is nonetheless
Village Attacks Signal New Level of Rebel Coordination
The attack on the village of Muzhichi in Ingushetia on July 8 was noteworthy because it shows that the Chechens have begun to support comrades-in-arms who are within the Emirate
Chechnya Remains the Epicenter of the North Caucasus Insurgency
Faced with a surge of Russian news media reports about daily armed skirmishes in Chechnya, official Moscow is trying to defuse the tension by deploying its usual crude propaganda tactics.
Who’s Who in the Moscow Chechen Community
With everything that is happening in Chechnya today, the affairs of Chechen communities outside of their homeland are not receiving much notice. Moscow alone, for instance, was home to up
Increase in Chechen Attacks Linked to Broader North Caucasus Strategy
We wrote back in April that the Chechen militants’ renewed combat operations needed to be viewed with a certain degree of caution (Chechnya Weekly, April 3). The reasons for such
Counting Chechnya’s Rebel Fighters: Kadyrov’s Fuzzy Math
Chechen President Ramzan Kadyrov has announced a total victory over separatist forces in Chechnya. Considering President Vladimir Putin proclamations several years ago that the rebels had been totally defeated as
Zakaev’s Attempts to Persuade Dokka Umarov are in Vain
The developments surrounding the announcement of the Caucasus Emirate by the current leader of the Chechen resistance movement, Dokka Umarov, on November 7, 2007, forced all resistance members as well
Medvedev Confirms, Ustinov Accepts, Kozak and the Military Speak the Sobering Truth
Three notable events last week became a final brushstroke in the picture of Chechnya’s immediate future envisaged by those directing the actions of the Chechen government by proxy from Moscow.
Russia Admits Rebel Fighter Activity in Chechnya
Faced with recurring reports of assaults and assassinations in Grozny and the rest of Chechnya, Russian government officials are being forced to admit that rebel fighter operations have become a
The Increasingly Deadly Struggle for Power between Kadyrov and Alkhanov
The statements made by the pro-Moscow Chechen leaders Alu Alkhanov and Ramzan Kadyrov are becoming ever more comical as the two leaders consistently contradict each other while addressing the same
The North Caucasus Factor in Georgia
Russia has played the North Caucasus card against the Georgians once before - during the armed conflict of August-September 1992. At the time, Russia took advantage of the close ethnic
Is Aushev Planning a Political Comeback?
When the Ingush public found themselves at a crossroads in 1991 after their Chechen neighbors announced secession from Russia, they decided that following the Chechen example may lead to the
Dagestan’s Jamaats Widen Their Theater of Operations
Dagestan’s Interior Minister Adalgirei Magomedtagirov recently admitted that the government expects rebel fighters to strike over the May holidays. The projected spread of rebel attacks mentioned in his statement was
Rebel Restructuring Revitalizes Insurgency
It has been almost a month since this author first wrote about the Alkhazurovo raid for Chechnya Weekly (Chechnya Weekly, April 3). By now, some preliminary conclusions may already be
This Odd Place Called Ingushetia
Events unfolding in the North Caucasus continue to be a matter of concern for human rights advocates but not in the least for the local governments acting as the Kremlin’s
Oil in Chechnya: A Brief History
The first reports of oil deposits in Chechnya surfaced in the writings of travelers who noted streams of a peculiar black substance gushing out from under the ground in some
Russia Attempts to Draft Chechens into the Army
Twice each year, all Chechen mothers with sons aged 18 to 27 start worrying about their children’s future as news of the draft into the Russian army begins to circulate.
The Alkhazurovo Operation: Are Chechnya’s Rebels on the Rebound?
Recent developments in the North Caucasus have captured the attention of skeptics who had prematurely decided that the region had finally achieved long-term stability and that there was no longer
The Chechen Diaspora in Russia
The Chechen Diaspora in Russia is the most numerous of all Chechen communities spread around the world outside of Chechnya. According to the official results of Russia’s 2002 census, 1.1
Dmitry Medvedev’s Chechnya Policy
The so-called elections of March 2, which endorsed Dmitry Medvedev as the next Russian leader, were less about whether or not he will be president (that decision had already been
Uzun Haji’s and Dokka Umarov’s Emirates: a Retrospective
Any present-day event always triggers associations with other episodes already captured by history. Analogies of this sort help to understand the advantages and flaws of current actors, who similarly are
Ingushetia Spins Further Out of Control
For some time now, bad news coming out of Ingushetia has been treated as “business as usual”: reports of explosions, arrests and assassinations have become a trademark of this North
Rebel Hierarchy Changes in the Wake of Umarov’s Emirate Decree
Dokka Umarov's infamous announcement declaring the formation of a new state structure, the Emirate, has been followed recently by a period of reflection and correcting the errors made by the
Kadyrov Expands His Influence in Moscow
In order to avoid a potential weakening of his position after the next president of the Russian Federation takes office, Ramzan Kadyrov has been working to boost his influence in
The War of Words Between Zakaev and Umarov
During a recent press conference, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that traveling to the Chechen Republic without protection is still not feasible (RIA Novosti, January 23, 2008). This statement
Chechnya’s Exodus to Europe
A sternly worded statement made by the Austrian radical right-wing politician Jorg Haider served as yet another reminder to the world that the Chechen refugee problem remains acute (Gazeta.ru, January
2007 Summed Up: Ichkeria Gets the Emirate
After deliberating for a year and a half, Chechen resistance leader Dokka Umarov, who took over after the assassination of Chechen Republic of Ichkeria (ChRI) leaders Aslan Maskhadov and Abdul-Khalim
The Dagestani Jamaat (Part 2)
Following the events of summer and fall of 1999, the realities of Dagestan’s life suggested a whole new attitude toward Salafi adherents was emerging. Dagestan is generally considered a region
The Dagestani Jamaat (Part 1)
The Dagestani Jamaat "Shariat" is the direct successor of the Dagestani Jamaat supposedly destroyed on the orders of Vladimir Putin in August and September of 1999 [1]. As such, it
“Chechen Reconstruction”: The Facade of Normalcy
The elections Moscow organized for the Chechen Republic’s President and Parliament in 2004 and 2005, respectively, gave the facade of political legitimacy to its power over Chechnya, and Moscow also
Weaknesses in Moscow’s Chechnya Policy
The current situation in Chechnya is causing controversies and misunderstandings and, consequently, leading those who follow this region to draw incorrect conclusions. First off, it must be noted that nothing
Zakaev Takes on the Emirate
The recent statements made by the foreign minister of the Chechen Republic of Ichkeria (ChRI) came as a shock to the Chechen community (Chechenpress, October 23). Akhmed Zakaev’s sharp attacks
Shamil Buraez—Politkovskaya’s Killer or Fall Guy?
During his live question-and-answer session with the Russian people on October 18 (a veritable PR-fest for the Kremlin’s image-makers), Vladimir Putin talked about what he felt was important to the
Political and Militant Leadership Changes in Dagestan
The many changes that have occurred in Dagestan during the past month can only astonish those following the developments in the republic. Most important is the recent change in the
Putin’s Latest Reshuffling
As is typical for Russia, long expected news is being presented to the public as something sensational and surprising. Vladimir Putin, having sworn that no one would be able to
The Truth about the “Kataib al-Khoul” Ossetian Jamaat
The North Ossetian jamaat is undoubtedly the most exotic of all the North Caucasus resistance units. For the longest time this group was considered a fable, a fabrication used by
Doku Umarov’s Attempts to Rebuild His Foundations
A noticeable rise in insurgent activity has been observed during the summer of 2007. A link may exist with the recent policies of the Chechen leader, Doku Umarov, who has
Dagestan: Russia’s Eternal Problem
During the last few years, all of the ethnic republics of the Northern Caucasus – Dagestan, Chechnya, Ingushetia, Kabardino-Balkaria, Karachaevo-Cherkessia and Adygeia – have undergone changes in their leadership. The
Dokka Umarov Starts to Show His Teeth
The past month has undoubtedly been one of Dokka Umarov’s fiercest and most productive since he assumed command of the resistance movement. Day after day in July and early August,
Warriors of the Nogai Steppe: A Profile of the Nogai Jammat
It has become fairly common for the Nogai jamaat to be overlooked, even by the leaders of the Caucasus resistance movement. It is never listed as one of the “fronts”
The Future of Ramzan Kadyrov
It has become commonplace for Ramzan Kadyrov’s public statements to be less an expression of his own views and more of a way for one of the Kremlin cliques to
The Continuing Exodus of Ethnic Russians from the Caucasus
Starting in the 16th century and continuing into the 19th century, Russian settlers followed Russia’s armies in the process of annexing the Caucasus. The first Russians in the region came
Dagestan in Crisis
Mukhu Aliev’s recent statements run sharply contrary to what the federal authorities of the Russian Federation would like to hear about the North Caucasus. During his speech in Rostov, the
Zyazikov’s Spiraling Problems in Ingushetia
The North Caucasus continues to churn uneasily, despite all of Moscow’s cheerful assurances to the contrary. It is hard to miss how the Russian leadership desperately tries to find a
The Russian Army in Chechnya: A Comparison of 19th and 21st Century Tactics
In comparing the Russian conquest of Chechnya in the 19th century and the current methods used by the Russian military to subjugate the Chechen people, one comes to the inescapable
Is Sarkozy Serious about Chechnya?
Foreign policy generally plays a secondary – perhaps even a tertiary – role in French electoral campaigns. The new head of state is determined by the competition between rival visions
Karachay Jamaat: Countermeasures, Connections and Composition, Part 2
The second Chechen campaign dramatically altered the attitude of authorities toward those considered radicals. In practice, the local authorities began the total persecution of all who even slightly criticized the
Karachay Jamaat: History, Reality and Perspective, Part 1
The Karachays are the ones who have been more politically active in Karachaevo-Cherkessia, and there are both objective and subjective aspects that explain this, which can be found in the
A Profile of the Karachai Dzhamaat
The leadership of Karachaevo-Cherkessia has loudly and vociferously claimed, despite all evidence to the contrary, that the republic is the quietest region in the Northern Caucasus (www.kavkaz.memo.ru, March 23). The
Strategy and Perspectives on Dokka Umarov’s Rapprochement with the Radicals
Dokka Umarov’s recent appointment of Supyan Abdullaev as the rebel vice-president highlights an increasing political shift within the Chechen insurgency whereby the secular wing is now accelerating its efforts to
The Hajj and Its Impact on the North Caucasus
Year after year, Muslims living within the Russian Federation are confronted with the host of issues surrounding the hajj, the Muslim pilgrimage to the holy cities of Mecca and Medina
New Faces on Both Sides of the Frontlines
Chechnya has recently witnessed several important personnel changes among both the members of the resistance movement and the pro-Kremlin rulers of the republic. By nominating Ramzan Kadyrov to the position
Remembering the 1944 Deportation: Chechnya’s Holocaust
Even though many decades have passed, the Second World War is still an unanswered question for the Chechen people, and this historical burden inevitably impacts the continuing development of Chechen
Still Betting on Kadyrov: The Kremlin’s Strategy in Chechnya
Last year was a fairly successful one for Ramzan Kadyrov, even though his main goal – to become the republic’s president – has remained unmet. The conditions within the republic
The Chechen Resistance Movement: 2006 in Review
In looking back on the events of 2006 in the Northern Caucasus, it is impossible not to notice the significant political and strategic changes that have affected the Chechen resistance
Kadyrov’s Chechen Network in Moscow
The recent appointment of Hussein Djabrailov as a vice prime minister of Chechnya has generally been ignored by the media, despite the fact that this is a demonstration of the
The Increasingly Deadly Struggle for Power between Kadyrov and Alkhanov
The statements made by the pro-Moscow Chechen leaders Alu Alkhanov and Ramzan Kadyrov are becoming ever more comical as the two leaders consistently contradict each other while addressing the same
The Kremlin’s War on Islamic Education in the North Caucasus
Moscow is attempting to once more tightly control the spread of Islamic ideology in the problematic region of the North Caucasus. Events in Chechnya and the spread of armed conflict
Akhmed Zakaev’s “Manifesto for Peace in Chechnya”: A Crisis in the Chechen Republic of Ichkeria’s Ruling Hierarchy
The recent killing of Shamil Basaev was followed by the appearance of an extraordinary document called, “A Manifesto for Peace in Chechnya,” penned by Akhmed Zakaev, the foreign minister of
Chechnya and the Northern Caucasus without Shamil Basaev
For the president of the Russian Federation, the past month has been full of good news from Chechnya. It was only on June 17 that information about the death of
Sadulaev’s Death and the Future of the Chechen Insurgency
Like his predecessors in the war, the leader of the Chechen resistance movement, president of the Chechen Republic of Ichkeria (ChRI), Abdul-Khalim Sadulaev, has been killed [1]. A. Sardali, a
A Strategy of Resistance: Sheikh Mansour Aldinsky and Sheikh Abdul-Khalim Argunsky (Sadulaev)
On April 13, 1794, the Chechen sheikh Mansour (Ushurma) Aldinsky ended his life at the Shlisselburg Castle. In his 30 plus years, he managed to achieve what no one before
THE ROLE OF SUFISM IN THE CHECHEN RESISTANCE
The Sufi interpretation of Islam has been practiced in Chechnya since the end of the 18th century. The Sufism of the Naqshbandi tariqa (or brotherhood) was the first to make
EVOLUTION OF THE CHECHEN JAMAAT
When referring to events in Chechnya and the North Caucasus, the media often employs a one-sided interpretation of the term "jamaat." In most cases, the media interprets the term exclusively
MASKHADOV’S LEGACY: THE PROCESS OF FOR SELECTING CHECHNYA’S NEW LEADER
Aslan Maskhadov's assassination will undoubtedly have a negative impact on the overall situation in Chechnya, as the new leadership shifts the tactics and strategy of the Chechen resistance movement. Instead
RADICALIZATION OF THE CHECHEN RESISTANCE OR THE TACTICAL CHOICE OF THE LEADERSHIP?
How relevant is it today to speak of the "overall radicalization" of the Chechen resistance movement? What prompts so many analysts and observers to consider the actions of only two
RADICALIZATION OF THE CHECHEN RESISTANCE OR THE TACTICAL CHOICE OF THE LEADERSHIP?
How relevant is it today to speak of the "overall radicalization" of the Chechen resistance movement? What prompts so many analysts and observers to consider the actions of only two
MASKHADOV’S LEGACY: THE PROCESS OF FOR SELECTING CHECHNYA’S NEW LEADER
Aslan Maskhadov's assassination will undoubtedly have a negative impact on the overall situation in Chechnya, as the new leadership shifts the tactics and strategy of the Chechen resistance movement. Instead
EVOLUTION OF THE CHECHEN JAMAAT
When referring to events in Chechnya and the North Caucasus, the media often employs a one-sided interpretation of the term "jamaat." In most cases, the media interprets the term exclusively
THE ROLE OF SUFISM IN THE CHECHEN RESISTANCE
The Sufi interpretation of Islam has been practiced in Chechnya since the end of the 18th century. The Sufism of the Naqshbandi tariqa (or brotherhood) was the first to make
A Strategy of Resistance: Sheikh Mansour Aldinsky and Sheikh Abdul-Khalim Argunsky (Sadulaev)
On April 13, 1794, the Chechen sheikh Mansour (Ushurma) Aldinsky ended his life at the Shlisselburg Castle. In his 30 plus years, he managed to achieve what no one before
Sadulaev’s Death and the Future of the Chechen Insurgency
Like his predecessors in the war, the leader of the Chechen resistance movement, president of the Chechen Republic of Ichkeria (ChRI), Abdul-Khalim Sadulaev, has been killed [1]. A. Sardali, a
Chechnya and the Northern Caucasus without Shamil Basaev
For the president of the Russian Federation, the past month has been full of good news from Chechnya. It was only on June 17 that information about the death of
Akhmed Zakaev’s “Manifesto for Peace in Chechnya”: A Crisis in the Chechen Republic of Ichkeria’s Ruling Hierarchy
The recent killing of Shamil Basaev was followed by the appearance of an extraordinary document called, “A Manifesto for Peace in Chechnya,” penned by Akhmed Zakaev, the foreign minister of
The Kremlin’s War on Islamic Education in the North Caucasus
Moscow is attempting to once more tightly control the spread of Islamic ideology in the problematic region of the North Caucasus. Events in Chechnya and the spread of armed conflict
Kadyrov’s Chechen Network in Moscow
The recent appointment of Hussein Djabrailov as a vice prime minister of Chechnya has generally been ignored by the media, despite the fact that this is a demonstration of the
The Chechen Resistance Movement: 2006 in Review
In looking back on the events of 2006 in the Northern Caucasus, it is impossible not to notice the significant political and strategic changes that have affected the Chechen resistance
Still Betting on Kadyrov: The Kremlin’s Strategy in Chechnya
Last year was a fairly successful one for Ramzan Kadyrov, even though his main goal – to become the republic’s president – has remained unmet. The conditions within the republic
Remembering the 1944 Deportation: Chechnya’s Holocaust
Even though many decades have passed, the Second World War is still an unanswered question for the Chechen people, and this historical burden inevitably impacts the continuing development of Chechen
New Faces on Both Sides of the Frontlines
Chechnya has recently witnessed several important personnel changes among both the members of the resistance movement and the pro-Kremlin rulers of the republic. By nominating Ramzan Kadyrov to the position