Dare Babalola
The Russian Government is keeping a watchful eye on Nigeria following a recent statement by President Donald Trump that suggested the United States of America might take military action in the country.
Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova stated at a press briefing on Friday that Russia is closely watching the developments and urges all parties to adhere strictly to international law.
Zakharova made the comments during a press briefing in Moscow when asked by the Anadolu news agency about Trump’s recent statements .
On November 1, Trump said he had directed the Pentagon to draw up “options for possible military measures” against terrorist groups in Nigeria, claiming the move would be aimed at protecting Christian communities there.
Zakharova emphasised the need for Washington to operate within international law, promoting a responsible approach to global relations.
“We are closely monitoring this issue and call on all parties involved to strictly comply with international legal norms,” she reiterated.
In a post on his Truth Social platform last Friday, Trump described Christianity in Nigeria as facing an “existential threat” from radical Islamist groups.
“Thousands of Christians are being killed. Radical Islamists are responsible for this mass slaughter. I am hereby designating Nigeria a ‘country of particular concern,’” he wrote.
Trump further stated that the United States “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.
He also urged members of Congress to investigate the situation, instructing Congressman Moore, Chairman Tom Cole, and the House Appropriations Committee to report back to him.
In response, the Federal Government rejected the claims, with President Bola Tinubu reaffirming that Nigeria upholds religious freedom and protects the rights of all faiths.
