Russia has publicly stated that it is closely observing the situation in Nigeria following a recent threat by US President Donald Trump concerning alleged Christian persecution in the country.
On October 31, 2025, President Trump designated Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern, warning of a possible military strike to protect what he described as “our Cherished Christians”.
Trump criticized the administration for allegedly ignoring ongoing killings.
The Nigerian government has consistently denied any state-sanctioned persecution, arguing that the insecurity is not religiously motivated and affects all citizens. They also point out the Nigerian Constitution guarantees freedom of religion and that the government is actively working to bring perpetrators of violence, regardless of their affiliations, to justice.
At a press briefing on November 7, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova emphasized Moscow’s call for all parties to respect international legal norms.
We are closely monitoring this issue and urge strict adherence to international laws – Zakharova
Meanwhile, in the Middle East, Zakharova voiced serious worries about increasing Israeli ceasefire breaches along the Lebanon border, warning these could cause further violence. Russia pledges to remain engaged with Israeli and Lebanese leaders to maintain regional stability.
This marks Russia’s first official response to Trump’s threat, with concern over what it views as a possible unilateral US action in a sovereign African state.
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