Gunmen opened fire at synagogues, an Orthodox church, and a police post in Russia's North Caucasus region of Dagestan, killing at least 20 people. Officials blamed Islamic extremists for the coordinated attacks.
Key Points
Coordinated attacks on synagogues, an Orthodox church, and a police post in Dagestan
Blamed on Islamic extremists
Deadliest attack in Russia since March
Russian official pointed to Islamic 'sleeper cells' as responsible
Pros
Quick response by security forces to neutralize the attackers
Heightened awareness of potential terror threats globally
Cons
Tragic loss of life, including police officers and civilians