Five Russian soldiers and at least 14 militants are dead in Dagestan (which incidentally sounds like a GREAT title for a thriller.) The clashes took place on Thursday, about thirty klicks from the capital of Makhachkala. Russia is currently stepping-up operations against Dagestani separatists. At the same time, economic problems and tightened security measures seem to be leading young Dagestani men into armed opposition to Moscow.

Among the dead, Russian security forces found at least three Arab fighters. Foreign fighters are common among Islamic militant groups throughout Asia, and Arab Wahabbists have been a major catalyst in radicalizing parts of Dagestan.

For a quick overview on the region of Dagestan, here’s a BBC background piece.