US Halts Foreign Assistance to Gabon Following Coup

The United States has halted certain foreign assistance programs to Gabon following the military coup that took place on August 30. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced the decision, stating that the pause will continue while they evaluate the unconstitutional intervention by the military. The US will, however, continue operational activities in the country to support its citizens. The military government in Gabon has promised to oversee free and fair elections but has not provided a specific timetable. The Bongo family's long-standing rule and failure to distribute the country's wealth have led to widespread discontent.