Cynthia Ezegwu
The Russian Government has said it is closely monitoring developments in Nigeria following recent comments by United States President Donald Trump suggesting potential American military action in the country.
At a press briefing in Moscow on Friday, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said Russia was observing the situation with concern and urged all parties to adhere strictly to 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 the Anadolu News Agency about Trump’s remarks.
Her comments come after Trump announced on November 1 that he had directed the Pentagon to prepare “options for possible military measures” against terrorist groups in Nigeria, saying the action would be aimed at protecting Christian communities.
In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump claimed that Christianity in Nigeria faces an “existential threat” from radical Islamist groups, alleging that “thousands of Christians are being killed.”
“I am hereby designating Nigeria a ‘country of particular concern.’ The United States cannot stand by while such atrocities are happening,” Trump wrote, pledging that his administration would act to “protect our great Christian population around the world.”
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He also urged members of Congress to investigate the situation, naming Congressman Barry Moore, Chairman Tom Cole, and the House Appropriations Committee to report back to him.
Reacting to Trump’s comments earlier in the week, the Federal Government of Nigeria dismissed the claims, with President Bola Tinubu reaffirming that Nigeria remains committed to protecting religious freedom and the rights of all citizens, regardless of faith.
Zakharova reiterated that Moscow expects Washington to act “responsibly and within the bounds of international law” in addressing security or humanitarian concerns in Nigeria.