Russia Closely Monitoring Nigeria Amid Trump’s Threat of Military Intervention

The Russian government has confirmed that it is closely monitoring the escalating events in Nigeria following United States President Donald Trump’s recent statements regarding the possibility of American military action in the West African nation.

Dependable NG reports that Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova addressed the issue at a briefing in Moscow on Friday. She stated, “We are monitoring the situation and call for strict compliance with international law,” signaling a measured but concerned diplomatic stance on the matter.

President Trump has reiterated his resolve to deploy U.S. forces to Nigeria over what he describes as escalating violence against Christians, amidst outrage over abductions and killings. The U.S. leader declared that Christians in Nigeria are being killed “in very large numbers,” vowing that America would not allow the situation to continue. Trump previously designated Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC), a tag for nations witnessing severe violations of religious freedom under the International Religious Freedom Act.

The Nigerian government, however, has firmly pushed back against the claims of genocide, insisting they are inaccurate. On Friday, President Bola Tinubu countered the threat, stating that Nigeria “will decisively defeat terrorism and claim victory in this battle.” Tinubu noted that while the country has faced terrorism for almost two decades, “we remain steadfast in our commitment to engage partners and champion Nigeria’s interests on the diplomatic front.”

Meanwhile, the Orthodox Public Affairs Committee (OPAC) commended the Trump administration for its renewed commitment to confronting the targeting of Christians in Nigeria. George Gigicos, OPAC Co-founder and Chairman, stated that “The evidence of persecution has been overwhelming,” and called the designation “a necessary step toward meaningful and sustained action.” Vice Chairman Andrew Veniopoulos added that the matter is “not a political matter—it is a moral imperative.” The religious organization, while expressing solidarity with Nigerians, also urged the governments of Nigeria, the U.S., and all nations to pursue lasting tranquility through dialogue, understanding, and justice.