Russia has called on the United States to respect international law in its dealings with Nigeria, following reports that President Donald Trump has ordered the Pentagon to prepare military options amid growing concerns over alleged genocide threats against Christian communities.
Maria Zakharova, spokeswoman for Russia’s Foreign Ministry, said on Friday that Moscow was keeping a close watch on the situation and urged Washington to act within the bounds of global legal frameworks. “We are closely monitoring this issue and urge all parties involved to strictly follow international legal standards,” Zakharova said during a press briefing in Moscow.
Her remarks came after President Trump announced on November 1 that he had instructed the Pentagon to examine possible military measures against terrorist groups operating in Nigeria. The US leader justified the directive as a necessary step to “protect Christians facing persecution.”
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The statement from Moscow adds a new layer of tension to an already complex international response to Nigeria’s internal security challenges. Russia’s intervention signals its growing attention to US activities in Africa, especially as global powers compete for influence on the continent.
Zakharova also addressed questions about Kazakhstan’s reported interest in joining the Abraham Accords, a diplomatic framework promoting normalization between Arab nations and Israel. Maintaining a cautious tone, she said, “Please get a response from the country in question, and then, if necessary, we will comment on it.”
Her reply highlighted Moscow’s careful approach to emerging Middle Eastern alliances, particularly as they expand into regions traditionally within Russia’s geopolitical reach. Analysts say Russia’s measured response reflects a broader strategy of balancing assertive foreign policy with pragmatic diplomacy amid shifting global alignments.
The latest developments underline how Africa and Central Asia have become focal points in the power struggle between Washington and Moscow. While the United States strengthens its military and diplomatic presence through the Abraham Accords and security partnerships, Russia continues to position itself as a guardian of international law and a counterweight to perceived Western interventionism.
Russia’s warning over Nigeria is being seen by observers as both a challenge to US authority and a bid to reinforce Moscow’s role as a key player in global conflict mediation.
