The Russian government has confirmed it is monitoring political and security developments in Nigeria following a controversial statement by former U.S. President Donald Trump, which reportedly included threats perceived as hostile toward the West African nation. The remarks have drawn global attention, prompting caution from several foreign missions in Abuja.
According to Reuters (Nov. 5, 2025), Trump’s comments, made during a political rally in Texas, referenced potential sanctions and diplomatic “repercussions” for countries “undermining American interests,” with Nigeria specifically mentioned in relation to recent oil trade and defense cooperation with Moscow. The comments have since stirred diplomatic unease in both Washington and Abuja.
The Guardian (UK) reported that the Russian Foreign Ministry, in a statement issued through its spokesperson Maria Zakharova, said Moscow is “closely following developments in Nigeria and the broader West African subregion,” emphasizing that Russia seeks “stability, sovereignty, and mutual respect” in its international relations.
Premium Times noted that Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has yet to issue a formal statement but confirmed that discussions are ongoing between Nigerian officials and representatives from both the U.S. and Russian embassies. A senior diplomatic source described the situation as “sensitive but under control.”
Meanwhile, BBC News Africa highlighted growing concern among political analysts that Trump’s remarks could reignite debates over Nigeria’s non-alignment stance and foreign policy neutrality amid heightened global tensions.
Sources
Reuters — “Russia Monitoring Situation in Nigeria After Trump Remarks,” Nov. 5, 2025
The Guardian (UK) — “Russia Reacts to Trump’s Threat Toward Nigeria,” Nov. 5, 2025
Premium Times — “Nigeria Engages in Quiet Diplomacy Amid U.S.-Russia Tensions,” Nov. 5, 2025
BBC News Africa — “Analysts Warn of New Diplomatic Strain After Trump’s Comments on Nigeria,” Nov. 5, 2025
