The United States Embassy in Cotonou says security conditions in the city have returned to normal following Sunday’s attempted coup, prompting the mission to withdraw its earlier shelter-in-place advisory for American citizens.
In a statement on Monday, the embassy confirmed that stability had been restored after a day of confusion and tension across Benin’s commercial capital.
While lifting the advisory, the mission urged U.S. nationals to remain cautious and continue monitoring developments.
The embassy advised Americans to avoid large crowds, steer clear of demonstrations, keep a low profile, and stay in touch with relatives to confirm 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 read.
“We encourage U.S. citizens to continue taking precautions, monitor local media, avoid crowds and demonstrations, maintain a low profile, and notify friends and family of your safety.”
Cotonou witnessed dramatic scenes on Sunday, December 7, 2025, when a group of mutinous soldiers attempted to topple President Patrice Talon’s government.
Residents awoke to the startling broadcast of uniformed officers on state television announcing that the government had been dissolved and the constitution suspended.
The soldiers, identifying themselves as the “Military Committee for Refoundation,” claimed they had removed the president from office after an unsuccessful bid to seize his residence, which was protected by loyal forces.
Failing to capture Talon, they turned to the national broadcaster in a bid to assert control and sway public support.
For several hours, uncertainty spread as reports emerged of border closures and suspended political activities.
However, the situation shifted quickly when Interior Minister Alassane Seidou appeared later in the day to announce that the attempted coup had collapsed.
Loyalist troops regained control of key facilities, and multiple suspects were taken into custody. At least 14 soldiers were reportedly arrested, while others fled the city.