Trump says U.S. forces ‘could be’ involved in Nigeria, warns of action if killingscontinue

U.S. President Donald Trump said on Air Force One that American forces “could be” involved in an operation in Nigeria and that he had asked the Pentagon to prepare for possible action if Nigeria does not stop the killing of Christians. 

Speaking to reporters, Trump did not give operational details but said any action would be “fast” and could include ground forces. He posted on Truth Social that the U.S. would immediately stop all aid and assistance to Nigeria if the violence continued. 

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth echoed the warning on social media, saying the “Department of War is preparing for action” and that “either the Nigerian government protects Christians, or we will kill the Islamic terrorists who are committing these horrible atrocities.” 

Nigeria’s presidency pushed back, saying the characterization of the country as intolerant of other religions did not reflect Nigeria’s reality and stressing ongoing efforts to safeguard freedom of belief. 

The comments came after the Trump administration added Nigeria back to a “country of particular concern” list over religious-freedom violations.