The U.S. Embassy in Cotonou has confirmed that normalcy has returned to the Beninese capital following the unsuccessful coup attempt that shook the city on Sunday, December 7, 2025. The embassy also announced the removal of its earlier shelter-in-place advisory for American citizens residing in or visiting Benin.
In an official statement released on Monday, the embassy indicated that the situation in Cotonou has stabilized, though it emphasized that U.S. nationals should continue to exercise caution.
“The U.S. Embassy in Cotonou assesses that the situation is calm and that life has largely returned to normal. We are therefore lifting the shelter-in-place advisory,” the statement said.
The embassy encouraged Americans to remain vigilant by following standard safety precautions. These include avoiding large crowds, staying clear of public demonstrations, keeping a low profile when traveling around the city, and staying informed through local media. The statement further advised U.S. citizens to notify family and friends of their safety.
The unrest erupted when a faction of soldiers, calling themselves the “Military Committee for Refoundation,” attempted to overthrow President Patrice Talon’s administration. The mutineers briefly seized control of the national broadcaster, announcing the suspension of the constitution and the dissolution of the government.
Their initial attack on President Talon’s heavily guarded residence failed, forcing the group to focus on the state television station in a bid to assert influence and communicate their intentions to the public.
Benin’s Interior Minister, Alassane Seidou, later addressed the nation, confirming that loyalist forces had successfully regained control of all strategic locations. At least 14 soldiers involved in the mutiny were apprehended, while several others reportedly escaped.
The incident underscores ongoing security challenges in the region, prompting both the government and foreign missions to reinforce vigilance and preparedness for potential unrest.
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