Bolivia President Luis Arce Thwarts Alleged Coup Attempt as Troops Retreat and Leader Detained

Bolivia’s President Luis Arce has successfully navigated a tense standoff after armed troops, reportedly under a top general’s command, briefly seized control of government buildings in La Paz. The dramatic events unfolded with troops storming the central square, prompting Arce to call for citizens to defend democracy against what he labeled as a coup d’état. Arce, flanked by his cabinet, urged Bolivians to mobilize against the threat to national stability.

The situation escalated as former President Evo Morales and other officials accused recently sacked army commander Gen Juan José Zúñiga of orchestrating the unrest. Despite initial turmoil, Arce managed to confront Zúñiga directly, ordering troops to stand down and swiftly appointing a new military high command. By evening, reports indicated a return to normalcy with troops withdrawing and Zúñiga detained on charges including terrorism and armed uprising.

International reactions poured in condemning the attempted power grab, with leaders across Latin America and Europe voicing support for Bolivia’s democratic institutions. Mexico’s president-elect Claudia Sheinbaum and Venezuela’s Nicolás Maduro expressed solidarity with Arce, while Brazil and the Organization of American States emphasized the importance of upholding constitutional order.

The incident underscores heightened political tensions ahead of Bolivia’s 2025 elections, with Morales planning to challenge Arce, adding to internal party divisions and economic challenges in the country.