Three Americans Sentenced to Death in Congo

Three American citizens, including Benjamin Reuben Zalman-Polun, are facing death sentences in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) after being convicted for their roles in a failed coup attempt on May 19. A military tribunal sentenced a total of 37 individuals, with the Americans claiming their confessions were obtained under duress. The coup, led by Christian Malanga, resulted in six fatalities and was aimed at overthrowing President Félix Tshisekedi. The DRC reinstated the death penalty earlier this year, and the three Americans could face execution by firing squad if their appeal fails. Their lawyer argues that the reinstatement of the death penalty violates international law due to the country's membership in the Treaty of Rome. U.S. officials have condemned the involvement of American citizens in the coup and expressed concern over the situation.