France's Role in Foiling Benin's Coup Attempt

France has been providing discreet support to Benin's government following a recent coup attempt.

Details of French Support

• Intelligence Sharing: France has been sharing intelligence with Benin.
• Logistical Help: Providing logistical assistance to Benin's government.
• Collaboration with Nigeria: Working closely with Nigeria, which sent military aid to Benin at the request of President Patrice Talon.

Regional Instability

• Frequent Coups: Military takeovers have become more common in West Africa.
• Affected Countries: Niger, Burkina Faso, Mali, Guinea, and Guinea-Bissau have all experienced coups recently.

France's Discreet Involvement

• Low Profile: France has been careful not to draw too much attention to its involvement.
• ECOWAS Effort: A French presidential adviser mentioned the support was part of a broader effort by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
• Details Unclear: Exact nature of France's support was not disclosed.

Continued Interest in the Region

• Macron's Involvement: President Emmanuel Macron spoke with the leaders of Nigeria and Benin over the weekend.
• Scaled-Back Military Presence: Despite reducing direct military presence, France remains interested in the region.

Coup Plotters' Claims

• Reason for Coup: Coup plotters cited insecurity in northern Benin as their motivation.
• Jihadist Attacks: The region has seen several jihadist attacks, including major assaults earlier this year.
• Ongoing Struggles: Highlights the continued challenges with security and governance in the region.