President Donald Trump announced a military attack by the United States against Islamic State militants in northwestern Nigeria, stating that the terrorist group has targeted and killed innocent Christians.

The attack, coordinated with Nigerian authorities, took place in Sokoto state and resulted in the elimination of several ISIS militants. Trump emphasized that the violence against Christians in Nigeria has reached an alarming level, which prompted military intervention. The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed cooperation with the U.S. in the field of security, stating that the airstrikes were precise and effective. Although the Nigerian government acknowledged the problem of militant groups, it emphasized that they target both Muslims and Christians, disputing U.S. claims about the persecution of Christians. At the same time, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu called for peace and promised to protect religious freedom in the country. The attack was announced by Trump on Christmas Day while he was on vacation at his club in Florida.