The Benin Air Force, along with French aircraft, has launched strikes against rebel military positions in the capital, Cotonou. Local authorities announced this, noting that the operation is aimed at completely eliminating pockets of resistance following the suppression of the coup attempt.

Earlier on Sunday morning, a group of soldiers under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Pascal Tigri seized the national television building and announced the removal of President Pacisco Talon, the dissolution of the government, and the suspension of the constitution. The rebels closed the borders and banned political parties, accusing the authorities of deteriorating security in the north of the country.

Interior Minister Alassane Seydou confirmed that loyal troops and the National Guard had brought the situation under control.

"In the early hours of Sunday, December 7, 2025, a small group of soldiers began a mutiny with the aim of destabilizing the state and its institutions," " he declared in a video message. According to Seydou, the coup has been thwarted and Talon is safe.

Eyewitnesses in Cotonou reported gunfire near the presidential palace and the television center, as well as soldiers patrolling the streets. The French Embassy recorded gunfire near Camp Gezo, not far from the presidential residence, and advised citizens to stay home. By midday, the situation had stabilized: police deployed cordons at key intersections, and the shooting ceased.

The African Union and ECOWAS condemned the coup attempt and expressed support for the Benin government. The incident occurred amid preparations for presidential elections in April 2026, after which Talon, who has ruled since 2016, was scheduled to complete his term. According to sources, about a dozen participants in the rebellion have been arrested.