They’re killing record numbers of Christians in Nigeria — Trump
United States President Donald Trump has warned that the United States may use military force in Nigeria to stop what he called the large-scale killing of Christians. He made the remarks while speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One and in a social media post in which he said he had ordered the Pentagon to prepare for possible action if the Nigerian government did not act to protect Christians.
Trump said U.S. troops “could be” sent to Nigeria or that air strikes were possible, adding that Washington would not allow continued attacks on Christians. He also said the United States could cut off aid to Nigeria if the violence continued. Those comments followed his administration’s decision to place Nigeria on a watch list for religious-freedom concerns.
The Nigerian government rejected assertions that it is allowing mass attacks on Christians and urged diplomatic engagement rather than threats. Nigerian officials noted that the country faces complex security challenges and said victims of violence include people of different faiths. They called for cooperation to tackle insurgency and criminal violence without undermining national sovereignty.
Analysts and rights groups warned that unilateral military action risks inflaming tensions and could harm civilians. They urged careful verification of claims and stressed that the security problems in Nigeria are multifaceted, involving insurgent groups, banditry, and communal clashes that affect communities across religious lines. Experts said that accurate attribution and clear evidence are needed before considering any foreign military intervention.
The president’s remarks have prompted intense debate internationally and in Nigeria. Supporters of stronger U.S. action say moves are needed to protect vulnerable communities. Critics say the language risks worsening diplomatic relations and oversimplifying a complicated security picture. International observers are watching closely for how both Washington and Abuja respond in the coming days.
