Russia has expressed concern over rising tensions after former U.S. President Donald Trump signaled that Washington could take military action in Nigeria over alleged attacks on Christian communities.

At a briefing in Moscow on Friday, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said the Kremlin is closely monitoring the situation and urged all parties to avoid steps that could violate international law or escalate the crisis.

Her comments follow reports that U.S. defence officials have been preparing both air and ground intervention plans as part of Trump’s renewed focus on the protection of Christians in Nigeria. Trump recently reinstated Nigeria’s status as a “country of particular concern,” accusing militant groups of targeting Christian populations. He also warned that the United States could intervene “guns blazing” if Nigerian authorities fail to halt the violence, a statement that has triggered strong diplomatic reactions across the region.

The Nigerian government has dismissed the genocide claims, stressing that the country’s security challenges affect people of all faiths. It said it welcomes cooperation in combating terrorism but will not accept any action that undermines national sovereignty. ECOWAS has also backed Nigeria’s stance, warning that foreign narratives framed for military justification could further inflame tensions in West Africa.