Russia has said it is keeping a close eye on developments in Nigeria following a recent statement by U.S. President Donald Trump hinting at possible American military action in the country.
At a press briefing in Moscow on Friday, the Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman, Maria Zakharova, told reporters that the Kremlin was “closely monitoring the issue” and urged all parties to respect international law.
“We are closely monitoring this issue and call on all parties involved to strictly comply with international legal norms,” Zakharova said in response to a question from Anadolu news agency about Trump’s remarks.
Trump, speaking earlier on November 1, said he had instructed the Pentagon to prepare “options for possible military measures” against terrorist groups in Nigeria, a move he claimed was aimed at protecting Christian communities.
Zakharova warned Washington to act responsibly and within the confines of international legal frameworks, stressing that any foreign action in Nigeria must not violate the country’s sovereignty.
In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump alleged that Christianity in Nigeria was facing an “existential threat” from radical Islamist groups, adding that “thousands of Christians are being killed.”
“Radical Islamists are responsible for this mass slaughter. I am hereby designating Nigeria a ‘country of particular concern,’” the U.S. President declared.
He further stated that the U.S. “cannot stand by while such atrocities are happening,” pledging that his administration would be “ready, willing, and able to protect our great Christian population around the world.”
Trump also called on members of Congress to investigate the situation, naming Congressman Moore, Chairman Tom Cole, and the House Appropriations Committee to report back to him.
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Federal Government has rejected Trump’s claims, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu reaffirming that the country upholds religious freedom and protects the rights of all faiths.