A member of the U.S. House of Representatives, Riley Moore, has criticized China for weighing in on President Donald Trump’s warning of possible military action in Nigeria, calling Beijing’s response an unnecessary intrusion into America’s foreign affairs.
Moore’s statement comes after China condemned Trump’s remarks, which the former U.S. president framed as a move to protect Christians allegedly facing persecution in Nigeria.
China had earlier spoken through its foreign ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning, who reiterated that Beijing, as a close partner of Nigeria, opposes any country using human rights or religion as grounds to interfere in another nation’s internal issues or threaten them with sanctions or force.
Responding, Moore dismissed China’s comment and accused the communist-led nation of attempting to influence U.S. policy. He insisted that America’s decisions would not be dictated by Beijing.
He said the following:
“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.”
Growing U.S.–China Tensions
This latest dispute adds to the already strained relationship between Washington and Beijing, as both countries continue to push different visions of global power.
China, under President Xi Jinping, has expanded its reach in Africa through trade and investment, often emphasizing non-interference and mutual respect.
The United States, on the other hand, has seen reduced influence across the continent in recent years due to aid cuts, tariffs, and domestic challenges.
U.S. officials maintain that the country’s foreign decisions are guided by national interest, security, and global strength.
Meanwhile, ECOWAS and the European Union have reiterated their support for Nigeria’s sovereignty and urged global partners to assist ongoing regional efforts to combat terrorism and instability.
