Pentagon surprised, Nigeria concerned. Trump abruptly changes military priorities

US President Donald Trump caused uncertainty over the weekend when he publicly threatened military action against Nigeria. He claimed that the government there tolerates attacks on Christians and instructed the Pentagon to prepare for possible measures – “quickly and harshly.”

Although the Secretary of Defense immediately signaled his agreement, no concrete orders have been issued so far. According to sources at the Reuters news agency, the Pentagon is trying to assess the situation, as the US has only one base in Africa and Nigeria has not been one of its priorities to date.

Trump's announcement came after his administration placed Nigeria on the list of countries that seriously violate religious freedom – primarily because of the activities of Islamist groups such as Boko Haram.

In recent days, Trump has also surprised observers with further moves: he called for nuclear weapons tests and hinted at possible military involvement in Venezuela.

His actions now raise the question of whether this is a new strategy or a series of impulsive decisions.

(reuters, lup)