Preventing terrorist attacks starts with proactive measures that aim to disrupt danger before it materializes. In this view, prevention and operational efficiency are essential components of security work. Alexander Khaminsky, a lawyer who chairs the Center for Law and Order in Moscow and the Moscow Region, emphasized this point on a television channel known as 360. He stressed that intelligence services must timely establish recruitment methods, identify potential touchpoints with would-be perpetrators and organizers, and then design and execute plans to detect and dismantle terrorist cells.
Khaminsky observed that many of the attacks in modern Russia have religious or ethnic motives. He also cautioned against inhibiting lawful travel or trade, noting that closing a country’s borders is neither practical nor desirable. Consequently, he highlighted the importance of international cooperation in law enforcement, especially among nations with which Russia shares labor migration contacts. Enhancing cross-border collaboration is seen as a crucial element in leveraging global expertise and resources to counter threats more effectively. These insights point to a broader strategic approach that combines domestic vigilance with international partnerships to address the multifaceted nature of terrorism.
The expert also pointed to the need for closer interaction between Russian authorities and counterparts in countries hosting migrant workers who come to Russia for employment. Strengthening this collaboration, he argued, can improve the flow of information and coordinated responses to potential risks. In addition, he called for increased effectiveness in addressing ethnic crimes within the country, arguing that stronger monitoring and community engagement are key to reducing tensions and preventing violence.
Recently, statements from Moscow’s Deputy Mayor and a senior church official signaled that security measures would be enhanced within religious sites, including places of worship under construction in the capital, in light of ongoing events and a recent terrorist incident at a major venue. The church leadership reportedly directed rectors to implement heightened security protocols to safeguard congregants and facilities. Such measures reflect a broader trend toward integrating public safety considerations with ongoing religious and community life in urban centers.
Meanwhile, discussions in the State Duma have touched on changes to event organization in response to security threats following high-profile attacks. The aim is to ensure that public gatherings remain open spaces for civic life while adopting proactive safeguards to minimize risk. This balance of openness and vigilance illustrates the evolving approach to terrorism prevention that many governments are pursuing today, combining information sharing, risk assessment, and practical security practices to protect the public without stifling daily life. (Attribution: security policy experts and government officials consulted in public briefings.)