Tensions Rise as Russian Officials Debate Response to Religious Extremism

Two senior Russian officials are vying to lead efforts to combat religious extremism in Russia as ethnic and religious tensions continue to escalate. Alexander Bastrykin, head of Russia's Investigative Committee, commented on the June 23 terrorist attacks in Dagestan, stating on June 29 that Islamic terrorists had infiltrated Russia and that the State Duma should address the threat posed by these extremists. His remarks drew a sharp response from Ramzan Kadyrov, head of the Chechen Republic, who urged caution in labeling all Muslims as terrorists, warning that such rhetoric could destabilize the socio-political climate in Russia.

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