The Russian government says it is keeping a close eye on Nigeria following comments by United States President Donald Trump suggesting possible U.S. military intervention in the country.
At a press briefing in Moscow on Friday, Russia’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Maria Zakharova, said her country was “closely monitoring developments” and urged all parties to respect international law.
“We are carefully following this situation and call on all sides involved to strictly observe international legal norms,” Zakharova told reporters in response to a question from Turkey’s Anadolu News Agency.
Her comments came days after President Trump announced that he had directed the Pentagon to consider “possible military measures” against terrorist groups in Nigeria, claiming the move was intended to protect Christian communities.
In a post on his Truth Social platform last week, Trump said Christianity in Nigeria was 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,’” Trump wrote.
He further stated that the U.S. “cannot stand by while such atrocities are happening,” vowing that his administration would act decisively “to protect our great Christian population around the world.”
Trump also called on the U.S. Congress to investigate the situation, directing key lawmakers including Congressman Moore, Chairman Tom Cole, and members of the House Appropriations Committee to report back to him.
In response, Nigeria’s Federal Government rejected Trump’s claims.
President Bola Tinubu reaffirmed that Nigeria upholds religious freedom and ensures the protection of all faiths across the country.
Meanwhile, Moscow has advised Washington to handle the matter with caution and in line with international legal principles.
“We urge the U.S. to act responsibly and within the framework of international law,” Zakharova reiterated.
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