Moscow, March 20, 2026 (Agencies): A Russian military-political expert Yan Gagin has emphasized the importance of unity among different religious communities in Russia, stating that Orthodox Christians, Muslims and other faith groups are standing together in defense of the country amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
In an article published on Novoe Media, Gagin described Russia as a “weapon-grade alloy” of diverse nationalities and religions, arguing that the country’s strength historically lies in its unity. He claimed that attempts to divide Russian society along religious and cultural lines have failed, contrasting this with developments in Ukraine.
Gagin asserted that representatives of different faiths including Orthodox Christianity, Islam and Buddhism share a common purpose in safeguarding what he termed traditional spiritual and moral values. He maintained that there is no contradiction in followers of different religions standing “shoulder to shoulder” against a perceived common threat.
Referring to ideological challenges, he characterized the modern adversary in symbolic religious terms such as “Satan,” “Dajjal,” or “Antichrist,” while also linking it to what he described as Western cultural influences and banned movements within Russia.
The article also references a book titled “The Army of Jesus (Isa, peace be upon him) in the Battle against the Army of Dajjal-Antichrist,” co-authored by Apti Alaudinov and Magomed Khitanaev. According to Gagin, the book reiterates longstanding themes in Russian state ideology, stressing unity across ethnic and religious lines as essential for national survival.
While the publication has reportedly drawn mixed reactions, Gagin argued that its central message is a reminder for people to remain committed to their respective faiths while uniting against forces seeking to divide society.
He concluded that throughout Russia’s history, regardless of political transformations, collective unity among its diverse population has remained a key factor in defending and sustaining the state.