A Russian cultural studies doctor, Alexey Kurasov, commented on the unrest in Makhachkala, drawing some parallels with Kazakhstan. His statement can be summarized as follows:

«A comparative approach allows us to view the spontaneous seizure of the airport in Dagestan as the performance of an overture by a well-known composer, let’s say Shostakovich, with another renowned orchestra, perhaps the London Philharmonic, if we consider the version of external influence.

Kazakh political scientist Marat Shibutov ironically states that ‘Russians made fun of Kazakhstan — both of the attempted uprising and the capture of Almaty Airport. They were like, ‘Your government is weak, unlike ours.’ Since then, Russia has experienced an attempt at an armed uprising led by Yevgeny Prigozhin and now the seizure of the Mahachkala airport by a mob.

As Yuri Mikhailovich Solozobov says, Kazakhstan is a time machine for Russia. All that’s left is to set fire to some large administrative building and engage in mass looting of stores.

It must be acknowledged that the example of Kazakhstan is quite relevant. Therefore, we need to start doing at least some of the things they successfully began. Here’s the entire list:

• Replace the top leadership.
• Change 80% of the elite.
• Transition from a clan system to meritocracy.
• Abolish excessive restrictions.
• Democratize public life.
• Replace judges.
• Establish political institutions instead of personal agreements.
• Shift from confrontation to agreements.
• Prioritize internal development.
• Place the past in museums and build the future.
• Rely on our own people, not on foreigners.

In reality, Kazakhstan has not fully achieved all of this, but they have moved away from the edge of the abyss and nervously observe from the sidelines. The irony is that such measures were supported by Russia and are referred to as ‘top-down revolution.’ If it is not carried out, unrest will ignite from below. Perhaps it’s just my impression, but sparks are already flying in the Caucasus.»

The expert suggests that Russia should learn from Kazakhstan’s experiences and consider implementing various reforms, focusing on changing leadership, democratizing society, and transitioning from a clan-based system to meritocracy to prevent potential unrest.