U.N. condemns attempted coup and ‘violent unrest’ in Burundi

The U.N. Security Council is condemning leaders of an attempted coup in Burundi and those facilitating violence against civilians.

Council members condemned “the violent unrest” and called on all parties to stop fighting and prioritize peace and stability.

A council statement issued after a closed-door briefing Thursday by U.N. special envoy Said Djinnit called for “the swift return of the rule of law and the holding of credible elections.”

An army general who was fired as intelligence chief is trying to oust President Pierre Nkurunziza, whose decision to seek a third term has sparked widespread protests. Both sides were fighting Thursday.

Council members expressed their intent “to respond to violent acts in Burundi that threaten peace and security.”