The Threat of Islamic Extremism in Russia

The threat of Islamic extremism inside Russia is of great concern and importance to the United States and global security. The fight against violent, radical Islam is one of the major challenges of our time. Islamic terrorists have targeted numerous countries for attack, including the United States and Russia. They have declared war on the modern civilized world. Their barbaric actions in Syria remind us daily of their depravity. They must be stopped and they must be defeated. The future of America, Russia, and of Western civilization depends on that. The lives of millions will be in jeopardy if we don't do what is right today. Given the global nature of this fight, it is in the interests of our national interests to understand the growth of extremism in other parts of the world and in other countries, such as Russia. It is alarming to read reports of Muslims living in peaceful and in free democratic countries being attracted or recruited into radical Islamic terrorism. This frightening reality is happening in Europe and elsewhere. Media reports indicate that over 2,000 Russian-born fighters may have traveled to the Middle East to join ISIL. Extremist forces continue to plot attacks against both the United States and Russia. If we work together, we will be better able to protect our people, stop attacks, and kill violent terrorists.