The North Caucasus in Russia's geopolitical strategy

The article reveals the geopolitical significance of the North Caucasus in the history of the Russian Empire, the Soviet Union and the post-Soviet period. The role and importance of the North Caucasus as a military defensive frontier, which allows controlling important transport routes and exerting influence in neighboring countries and regions, are analyzed. Based on its strategically important location, the North Caucasus is an arena of confrontation between extremist groups and a zone of terrorist threats. A special role in the development of the geostrategic development of the North Caucasus is assigned to local elites and religious figures, who form an agenda aimed at reducing extremist and terrorist dependence. The administrative and political elites of the North Caucasus are making great efforts to implement a competent state policy aimed at harmonizing interethnic relations, preserving and developing cultural diversity. Federal, regional and municipal programs are being implemented in the North Caucasus aimed at creating an atmosphere of trust and involvement of local residents in the development of their region.

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