Benin President Talon Thwarts Coup, Vows Retribution

• Benin President Patrice Talon announced a coup attempt was thwarted, vowing retribution against the soldiers involved.
• Gunfire and explosions were reported in Cotonou, and soldiers briefly appeared on state TV claiming to have removed Talon from power.
• Forces loyal to Talon regained control, and 14 people have been arrested in connection with the attempt.
• Nigeria provided military assistance, including air force jets and ground troops, to help dislodge coup plotters.
• ECOWAS and the African Union condemned the coup, with ECOWAS deploying standby forces to Benin.

Why It Matters: Benin's thwarted coup highlights the ongoing threat to democratic stability in West Africa.