Russia has expressed concern over recent comments by U.S. President Donald Trump suggesting possible American military intervention in Nigeria, saying it is “closely monitoring” the political situation in the West African country.
During a campaign rally on November 1, 2025, President Trump claimed he had instructed the U.S. Department of Defense to prepare “options for action” in Nigeria to “protect Christian communities,” alleging widespread persecution, a statement that triggered global diplomatic reactions.
In a statement issued in Moscow, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova urged the United States to respect Nigeria’s sovereignty and adhere to international law.
“Russia is closely following developments in Nigeria and calls on the United States to refrain from any steps that could escalate tensions,” Zakharova said. “Such statements are unconstructive and potentially destabilising. Any unilateral military intervention in a sovereign African nation would represent a grave violation of the United Nations Charter.”
She added that Moscow “reaffirms its commitment to the principles of non-interference” and encourages all parties to prioritise dialogue, cooperation, and respect for Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
The Nigerian government swiftly dismissed Trump’s allegations of religious persecution, emphasising that security challenges in the country affect Nigerians of all faiths and ethnic backgrounds. Officials confirmed that diplomatic consultations were ongoing with Washington to clarify the U.S. president’s remarks.
It would be recalled that China cautioned against foreign interference, urging that Nigeria’s internal affairs be handled domestically and through regional frameworks such as ECOWAS and the African Union.
Political analysts say Moscow’s quick reaction reflects its increasing strategic interest in Africa and its desire to counterbalance American influence on the continent.
Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy and one of its top oil producers, has become a central focus in this evolving geopolitical rivalry.
Meanwhile, Trump’s remarks have been widely criticised by human rights groups and religious leaders, who accused him of using Nigeria’s complex security issues to advance his political agenda.
Observers warn that heightened rhetoric from global powers could strain Nigeria’s diplomatic relations and complicate its existing security partnerships with Western allies.