The Cossacks in Stavropol region are struggling with the contradictory goals of serving the Russian state and retaining their identity. The Cossacks try to argue that they have a distinct Cossack identity, but at the same time, they proclaim that their sole purpose of existence is to protect Russia. Cossacks often regard themselves as the protectors of Russia from the Muslims of the North Caucasus and other perceived threats. In exchange for these services, Moscow provides shadowy deals and preferences to the Cossack leaders. As a result, Cossack organizations are plagued with corruption and numerous internal conflicts.
The so-called Stavropol Cossack …read more
Source: The Jamestown Foundation