LA PAZ, Bolivia - Armored vehicles forcefully broke through the gates of Bolivia's government palace on Wednesday, while President Luis Arce declared that the country was facing an attempted coup. In a video message surrounded by ministers, Arce urged the Bolivian people to mobilize, stating, "Here we are, firm in Casa Grande, to confront any coup attempt."

Video footage captured Arce confronting the general commander of the army, Juan José Zúñiga, who seemed to be leading the alleged rebellion, in the palace hallway. Arce asserted his authority, demanding that Zúñiga withdraw his soldiers, and vowing to quell any insubordination.

Prior to entering the government building, Zúñiga addressed journalists in the plaza, suggesting that there may soon be a new Cabinet of ministers, highlighting the need for change in the country. He emphasized that, for the time being, he recognized Arce as the commander in chief.

Although Zúñiga did not explicitly mention leading a coup, inside the palace, amidst the sound of bangs, he asserted that the army was trying to restore democracy and free political prisoners. Arce, on his X account, called for the respect of democracy, expressing concern over ongoing coup attempts that could endanger the lives of Bolivians.

Television footage displayed two tanks and several soldiers in military attire stationed in front of the government palace. Arce, flanked by government officials, reiterated his commitment to protecting democracy and announced new heads of the army, navy, and air force.

Troops were seen setting up blockades outside the government palace, while Arce condemned those who rose against him, accusing them of tarnishing the uniform and pledging to uphold democratic principles. The newly appointed army chief, José Wilson Sánchez, urged the mobilized troops to return to their units, expressing the desire to avoid further disturbing scenes on the streets.

In response to the unfolding events, former President Evo Morales, in a message posted on X, denounced the military's actions in Murillo square outside the palace, labeling it a coup "in the making." The largest labor union in Bolivia also condemned the action, announcing an indefinite strike of social and labor organizations in La Paz in support of the government.

The incident has sparked outrage among regional leaders, including the Organization of American States, the President of neighboring Chile - Gabriel Boric, the leader of Honduras, and former Bolivian leaders. The country, with a population of 12 million people, has experienced escalating protests in recent months, stemming from its struggling economy - once one of the fastest-growing in the continent.

Bolivia is also gripped by a highly publicized rift within the governing party, the Movement for Socialism (MAS). Arce and former President Morales are currently locked in a battle for the future of the splintering party ahead of the 2025 elections.

As the situation continues to unfold, the eyes of the nation remain fixated on the government palace, where President Arce is determined to confront the alleged coup attempt and ensure the preservation of democracy in Bolivia.