U.S. Embassy Confirms Stability in Cotonou Post-Coup Attempt, Removes Shelter-in-Place Guidance for Americans—-Therefore, the embassy has cancelled its earlier shelter-in-place notice for American nationals.
According to the U.S. Embassy in Cotonou, the city’s security situation has stabilised and normalcy has been restored following Sunday’s disturbance.
Therefore, the embassy has cancelled its earlier shelter-in-place notice for American nationals.
According to a statement released Monday, the embassy called on U.S. citizens to exercise increased caution, stay updated through local media, avoid major crowds or demonstrations, and keep a discreet presence while navigating the city.
Citizens were also reminded to notify friends and family of their safety.
“The situation in Cotonou has stabilised and normalcy has returned, prompting us to withdraw the shelter-in-place recommendation,” the statement noted.
“We urge U.S. citizens to remain cautious. You can take the following steps: stay informed through local media, avoid large gatherings and demonstrations, maintain a low profile, and let friends and family know that you are safe.”
On Sunday, December 7, 2025, Benin Republic was rocked by an attempted coup when a faction of soldiers tried to overthrow President Patrice Talon’s government.
It was a tense Sunday morning in Cotonou, the commercial capital of Benin Republic. Residents awoke to the sight of soldiers appearing on state television, declaring that they had dissolved the government and suspended the constitution.
Identifying themselves as members of the so‑called “Military Committee for Refoundation”, the mutineers claimed to have removed President Talon from power.
Their bold announcement followed an unsuccessful assault on Talon’s official residence, which was heavily guarded by loyalist forces. Unable to capture the president, the soldiers turned to the symbolic act of seizing the national broadcaster, hoping to project authority and rally support.
For a brief moment, uncertainty gripped the nation as borders were reportedly ordered closed, and political parties suspended.
However, Benin’s Interior Minister, Alassane Seidou, appeared later to announce that the coup had been foiled. Loyalist troops regained control of strategic sites, and several of the mutineers were arrested. Reports suggest at least 14 soldiers were detained, while others fled.
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