The United States has called on all sides in Madagascar to resolve the country’s escalating crisis through peaceful, constitutional means.
A State Department spokesperson urged respect for democratic order, saying Washington wanted “a peaceful solution in line with the constitutional order.”
The appeal followed a dramatic announcement by Madagascar’s elite CAPSAT military unit, which declared itself in charge after parliament voted to impeach President Andry Rajoelina.
Weeks of protests over worsening shortages of electricity and water had set the stage for the power struggle that now grips the island nation.
Washington faces a diplomatic dilemma, as U.S. law requires cutting aid to governments that come to power through military coups.
However, the Trump administration has already slashed foreign assistance worldwide, potentially lessening the impact of any suspension.
According to U.S. data, Madagascar received roughly $32 million in aid during the last fiscal year, most of it devoted to health programmes.
As the dust settles in Antananarivo, uncertainty hangs over the country’s fragile democracy, with international partners urging dialogue to prevent deeper instability.
For now, Madagascar stands at a crossroads — between its constitutional promise and the shadows of its turbulent past.
