Executive Summary The Russian Federal Security Service’s neutralisation of two Islamic State supporters in Dagestan underscored the persistent security threats within the North Caucasian region and the capacity of extremist propaganda and recruitment networks to infiltrate local communities. Moscow necessitates to support its narrative of stability and success in the region. Consequently, Russian and local authorities might tighten their grip on the region by establishing more checkpoints and by monitoring social media and messaging applications like Telegram. Key Findings Russian security forces killed two Islamic State supporters in Dagestan. The suspects were involved in organising violent attacks against a synagogue and a railway station. Despite enhanced security measures by Moscow and local authorities, jihadist propaganda and recruiters are succeeding in infiltrating the population of Dagestan. Russia needs to increase local control to support its narrative of stability in the North Caucasus and avoid local disappointment. Background Information On January 29, 2026, Russian FSB eliminated Islamic State supporters organising a terrorist attack in Dagestan against a synagogue and railway tracks near the Ullubiyevo railway station in the Karabudakhkent district. According to Russia’s National Antiterrorism Committee (NAC), two individuals from Dagestan had been communicating with an Islamic State operative via Telegram and
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