Riley Moore, a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, has dismissed China’s statement asking U.S. President Donald Trump not to interfere in Nigeria’s sovereignty.
This followed Trump’s warning of potential military action in Nigeria if the genocide against Christians is not stopped.
Reacting to China’s statement, Moore described it as unwarranted interference in America’s foreign policy.
Moore’s remarks followed China’s condemnation of Trump’s statement, which the former president had framed as an effort to protect Christians facing persecution in Nigeria.
China’s foreign ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning, had earlier emphasized that Beijing, as Nigeria’s strategic partner, opposed any nation using religion or human rights as justification for meddling in other countries’ domestic affairs or threatening them with sanctions and force.
In reaction, Moore dismissed China’s stance, describing it as an attempt by a communist regime to influence U.S. decisions and asserting that Washington’s policies would not be shaped by Beijing’s opinions.
He said: “President Trump is absolutely right to defend our brothers and sisters in Christ who are suffering horrific persecution, and even martyrdom, for their faith in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. China will not dictate our foreign policy to us, and we will not be lectured to by a Communist autocracy that recently arrested 30 Christian pastors for their faith and throws ethnic minorities in concentration camps.”
The exchange marks another flashpoint in the escalating tensions between the United States and China, reflecting their competing visions for global leadership.
Under President Xi Jinping, China has strengthened its influence across Africa through trade and investment, promoting principles of non-interference, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence.
The United States, however, has seen its influence on the continent wane in recent years, hindered by aid reductions, tariffs, and domestic political challenges.
U.S. officials continue to maintain that every aspect of American foreign policy must advance national interests and ensure the country’s security, prosperity, and strength.
Meanwhile, ECOWAS and the European Union have reaffirmed their commitment to Nigeria’s sovereignty and stability, calling on the international community to support regional efforts against terrorism and insecurity.
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