Russia has expressed deep concern over reports that the United States is considering possible military intervention in Nigeria, following directives reportedly issued by former United States President Donald Trump to prepare contingency plans for such action. The development has raised global attention and sparked strong diplomatic reactions from several countries.
Speaking at a press briefing in Moscow on Friday, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said the Kremlin is monitoring the situation closely. She urged all stakeholders to act with restraint and respect international law as tensions continue to rise.
“We are closely monitoring this issue and call on all parties involved to strictly comply with international legal norms,” Zakharova said.
According to reports, the concern stems from statements attributed to Trump, who has ordered United States defence officials to draw up potential air and ground strike options aimed at what he described as the protection of Christian communities in Nigeria. The former American leader has been vocal about what he considers widespread persecution of Christians in parts of Africa, particularly in Nigeria’s northern region.
Recent reports from Washington suggest that the United States Defence Department has already drafted several strategic plans in line with Trump’s directive. These include targeted operations and humanitarian interventions meant to pressure the Nigerian government into taking stronger action against extremist violence.
In a recent address, Trump reportedly warned that Washington could “enter Nigeria guns a blazing” if the Nigerian authorities fail to stop ongoing attacks on Christian communities. The statement has been met with widespread criticism and concern among global observers who fear it could inflame existing tensions in an already fragile security environment.
Reacting to the reports, President Bola Tinubu’s administration dismissed the genocide allegations and rejected any notion of foreign military involvement in the country. The Nigerian government maintained that the security challenges facing the nation are complex and affect citizens of all faiths, not only Christians.
In a statement issued in Abuja, government officials emphasized that Nigeria remains committed to safeguarding the lives and property of all its citizens. The administration stated that it is working to strengthen both national and regional efforts against terrorism. The government also noted that while it welcomes international support, it will not accept any action that undermines the country’s sovereignty or territorial integrity.
The Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS, echoed Nigeria’s position and cautioned against external narratives that could distort facts or justify interventionist agendas. ECOWAS urged all foreign governments to respect the sovereignty of member states and to engage through diplomatic and cooperative channels rather than unilateral action.
Regional analysts have warned that any foreign military operation in Nigeria could destabilize West Africa, which is already grappling with multiple security threats ranging from insurgency to political instability. They argue that such intervention, even if well-intentioned, could inflame regional tensions and embolden extremist groups.
As diplomatic exchanges continue, both Moscow and Abuja have called for calm and for international actors to prioritize dialogue and respect for established global norms.
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