Even for those who believe in fairy tales, the story of a computer software company in this Caucasus republic can leave one laughing in disbelief.

"He enjoys considerable authority, not only in that territory, but also among the leaders of Russia's northern Caucasus republics," the news agency said.

The hijackers were seized shortly after they landed in the Caucasus republic of Chechnya aboard a helicopter.

For many in this Caucasus republic of five and half million, the deal with Moscow is tantamount to treason.

It's not correct to say that we want to build some sort of enclave on the territory of these North Caucasus republics.

Russia also signed two deals on building nuclear reactors worth $5bn in the Caucasus republic.

Russian border commanders also allowed thousands of mercenaries from other Caucasus republics to cross into Abkhazia.

Although Dagestan is once again in the headlines, there remains little understanding of the threat posed by the largest North Caucasus republic.

The political, economic, social and human rights situation in this Caucasus republic continues to be extremely unsatisfactory and a real cause for concern.

Russian leaders have long viewed Georgia and other Caucasus republics as wild places that cannot rule themselves.