The head of Dagestan, Sergei Melikov, stated that moderation must govern the response to the events unfolding in the republic and he expressed solidarity with Chechnya’s leader, Ramzan Kadyrov.
Melikov urged the public to respond with calm, wisdom, and restraint, to safeguard the memory of the region’s history, and to uphold traditional values that have long guided communities across the North Caucasus. He emphasized that shared cultural heritage and stability are essential as the republic faces difficult moments.
In his message, Melikov reiterated his solidarity with Kadyrov, noting that the Chechen leader continues to honor the inherited traditions of his people with a sense of sacred duty. The Dagestani leader stressed that those who cherish Dagestan and its people will not permit disrespect or unworthy talk about the issues at hand.
Earlier, Melikov had written on his Telegram channel about the impact of terrorist attacks on the region. He described how Dagestanis endured this period with resilience, recognizing the scrutiny from outside observers a week after the tragedies. He commended the residents for displaying maturity and steadfast dedication to the values of peace and benevolence, explaining that the citizens faced a harsh test and met it with dignity.
On June 23, Dagestan experienced a series of brutal terrorist incidents. Armed militants opened fire on places of worship, targeting Orthodox churches and synagogues. The violence underscored the fragile security situation and the need for united, decisive action to protect communities and preserve religious tolerance.
In a separate matter, a school formerly named after Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov was the site of ongoing investigations as searches were conducted in connection with the attacks across the republic. The events prompted a broad outreach to communities, urging vigilance and cooperation with authorities to ensure safety and to prevent further harm.
Throughout Dagestan, local authorities have called for collective resolve. Community leaders, law enforcement, and residents have underscored the importance of maintaining peace, supporting victims, and standing firm against forces that seek to destabilize the region. The dialogue has centered on reinforcing social cohesion, protecting cultural and religious diversity, and ensuring that the principles of mercy and solidarity guide all responses to violence.
As the region processes multiple shocks, analysts note that the response of Dagestani society reflects a long-standing tradition of resilience. The leadership’s messages stress that unity, respect for history, and adherence to peaceful means are the foundation for overcoming hardship. Citizens are encouraged to engage with official information channels, cooperate with investigations, and continue everyday life with confidence, knowing that institutions are working to restore normalcy and security.
Experts caution against sensationalism and underscore the importance of accurate reporting that honors the victims and preserves the integrity of communal life. In Dagestan’s villages and cities, people continue to gather, support one another, and demonstrate the strength that comes from shared heritage. The overarching goal is to prevent further violence, promote reconciliation, and sustain the values that bind the diverse communities of the North Caucasus together.