The United States Embassy in Cotonou has confirmed that normalcy has returned to Benin Republic’s commercial capital following Sunday’s failed coup attempt, prompting the lifting of its shelter-in-place advisory for American citizens.
In a statement issued on Monday, the embassy said the security situation in Cotonou had stabilised, assuring that the city was calm after the brief unrest that followed the attempted takeover by renegade soldiers.
While lifting the advisory, the embassy urged U.S. citizens to remain cautious, advising them to stay informed through local media, avoid large gatherings and demonstrations, keep a low profile, and regularly inform friends and family of their safety.
“The U.S. Embassy in Cotonou assesses that the situation in Cotonou is calm and has returned to normal. We are lifting the shelter-in-place recommendation,” the statement said, while stressing the need for continued vigilance.
Benin Republic was thrown into tension on Sunday, December 7, 2025, when a faction of soldiers attempted to overthrow the government of President Patrice Talon. Residents of Cotonou woke up to soldiers appearing on state television, announcing the dissolution of the government and the suspension of the constitution.
The mutineers, who identified themselves as the “Military Committee for Refoundation,” claimed they had removed President Talon from power, following an earlier failed attack on his official residence, which was protected by loyalist forces.
After failing to capture the president, the soldiers reportedly seized the national broadcaster in a bid to assert authority and rally public support, sparking brief uncertainty across the country. Reports at the time also suggested that borders were ordered closed and political parties suspended.
However, the attempted coup was swiftly foiled. Benin’s Interior Minister, Alassane Seidou, later announced that loyal troops had regained control of key installations, arrested several of the plotters, and restored order. At least 14 soldiers were reportedly detained, while others fled.
With calm restored and government authority firmly reasserted, diplomatic missions, including the U.S. Embassy, have confirmed that life in Cotonou has returned to normal.