In a recent interview with The New York Times, President Donald J. Trump issued a stern warning regarding potential additional U.S. military actions in Nigeria, emphasizing the need to safeguard Christian communities amid reports of targeted attacks by extremist groups.
The President referenced the successful U.S. strikes conducted on Christmas Day 2025 against Islamic State militants in northwest Nigeria, which were carried out in coordination with Nigerian authorities.
These operations targeted ISIS-affiliated terrorists accused of viciously killing innocent Christians at alarming rates. "I'd love to make it a one-time strike," President Trump stated. "But if they continue to kill Christians, it will be a many-time strike."
President Trump has consistently highlighted what he describes as an "existential threat" to Christianity in Nigeria, pointing to ongoing violence in regions like Sokoto State. In late October 2025, he directed the Department of Defense to prepare for possible interventions if the Nigerian government fails to curb these attacks.
The Christmas Day strikes, involving precision Tomahawk missiles, decimated ISIS camps and served as a direct response to the slaughter of Christians, fulfilling the President's commitment to protect religious freedoms abroad.
While Nigeria has denied claims of systematic persecution against Christians, President Trump reiterated that the violence disproportionately affects Christian populations, even as it impacts others.
"It's mostly Christians," he noted, underscoring the urgency of the situation. The administration remains committed to monitoring developments closely and stands ready to act if necessary to prevent further atrocities.
The United States continues to support Nigeria in its fight against terrorism through intelligence sharing and joint operations, but President Trump made clear that American resolve will not waver in defending vulnerable communities.
"I have previously warned these Terrorists that if they did not stop the slaughtering of Christians, there would be hell to pay," the President said in a prior statement on Truth Social.