Amidst threat by the US President to invade Nigeria militarily, the Russia Government has issued a stern warning against any interference in the internal affairs of the country.
This is as it stated that it is “closely monitoring” the political situation in the West African country.
Recall that during a campaign rally on November 1, President Trump claimed he had instructed the U.S. Department of War to prepare “options for action” in Nigeria to “protect Christian communities.”
This followed his designating Nigeria as a country of particular concern following allegation of widespread Christians genocide.
However, 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.
It stated that “Russia is closely following developments in Nigeria and calls on the United States to refrain from any steps that could escalate tensions.
Zakharova warned that “Such statements are unconstructive and potentially destabilising. She added that “Any unilateral military intervention in a sovereign African nation would represent a grave violation of the United Nations Charter.”
“Moscow “reaffirms its commitment to the principles of non-interference” and encourages all parties to prioritize dialogue, cooperation, and respect for Nigeria’s territorial integrity,” she said.
Recall that the Nigerian Government has swiftly dismissed Trump’s allegations of religious persecution of Christians across the country. The Government emphasized that security challenges in the country affect Nigerians of all faiths and ethnic backgrounds.
The Presidency has also confirmed that diplomatic consultations were ongoing with Washington to clarify the U.S. president’s remarks.
Recall also that China has cautioned against foreign interference in Nigeria.
Just as Chin urged 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.