China Backs Nigeria, Slams Trump’s Military Threat Over Christian Persecution

📰 Short News (60 Words)

China has opposed U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat of military action against Nigeria over alleged Christian persecution, saying it supports Nigeria’s development path. Beijing’s Foreign Ministry criticized interference in internal affairs under the pretext of religion or human rights. China also opposed U.S. military strikes near Venezuela, urging respect for sovereignty and peace.

📰 Detailed News 

Beijing, Tuesday: China strongly opposed U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent threat to take military action against Nigeria over alleged persecution of Christians, voicing firm support for Nigeria’s sovereignty and its chosen development path.

The U.S. president, speaking on Saturday, warned that if the Nigerian government fails to prevent the continued killing of Christians, Washington would “immediately halt all aid” to the West African nation and may consider “military action to wipe out Islamic terrorists.”

Responding to Trump’s comments, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Tuesday that the Nigerian government had already issued a statement rejecting the claims. Nigeria’s Foreign Ministry clarified that the U.S. allegations do not reflect the country’s current realities and emphasized that the government remains committed to combating terrorism, fostering interfaith harmony, and protecting the lives and rights of all its citizens.

“As a comprehensive strategic partner, China firmly supports the Nigerian government in leading its people to follow a development path in line with its national conditions,” Mao said during a regular press briefing in Beijing.

Mao further stated that China “opposes interference by any country in the internal affairs of other nations under the pretext of religion or human rights” and condemned the “arbitrary use of sanctions and threats of force” in international relations.

The spokesperson underscored that China’s principle of non-interference remains a cornerstone of its foreign policy, particularly toward African nations with which Beijing maintains strong economic and political ties. China is among Nigeria’s largest trading partners and has invested heavily in infrastructure, power, and telecommunications in the country.

China’s Reaction to U.S. Strikes in Latin America

In the same briefing, Mao was also asked about reports that Venezuela is seeking missiles and drones following a series of U.S. strikes on boats in the Caribbean, allegedly involved in drug trafficking.

While she did not confirm whether China would supply military equipment to Venezuela, Mao reiterated Beijing’s opposition to the use of force under the pretext of combating drug cartels.

“China supports enhanced international cooperation in combating transnational crimes but opposes the use or threat of force in international relations,” she said, warning against actions that could undermine peace and stability in Latin America and the Caribbean.

She further criticized unilateral law enforcement actions by the U.S., saying that Washington’s so-called global anti-drug operations often “exceed reasonable and necessary limits.”

“We hope the U.S. will carry out normal law enforcement and judicial activities within bilateral and multilateral legal frameworks,” Mao added.

The spokesperson concluded by asserting that China’s cooperation with Venezuela is “normal and legitimate” and “not targeted at any third party.”

“Our exchanges and cooperation with Venezuela are conducted between sovereign states and should not be interfered with or influenced by any third party,” she said.

🌍 Background and Analysis

The statements mark a continued widening of the China–U.S. geopolitical divide, as Beijing positions itself as a defender of sovereignty and non-interference — a direct counterpoint to Washington’s interventionist policies.

Analysts note that China’s remarks also strengthen its political standing among developing nations, particularly in Africa and Latin America, where Beijing’s infrastructure diplomacy has earned significant influence.

The sharp tone against Trump’s remarks signals Beijing’s intent to protect its allies from Western pressure while reinforcing its vision of a multipolar world order free from unilateral U.S. dominance.