France has confirmed that it provided Benin with crucial intelligence and logistical support to help thwart Sunday’s attempted coup, according to French presidential officials.
Benin’s President Patrice Talon said his government and military successfully blocked a group of soldiers who tried to seize power, and those involved would face punishment.
French officials revealed that Nigeria also received intelligence from France. In response to a request from Cotonou, Nigeria deployed fighter jets and ground troops to assist Benin.
A French presidential adviser stated that France’s support included surveillance, observation, and logistical assistance, and was part of broader ECOWAS regional efforts. The adviser did not provide further details. President Emmanuel Macron reportedly spoke with both the Nigerian and Beninese presidents over the weekend.
The failed coup adds to concerns over democratic stability in West Africa, following recent military takeovers in Niger, Burkina Faso, Mali, Guinea, and Guinea-Bissau. France has taken a lower profile in the region in recent years after being pushed out of several former West African partners.
