US Withdraws Haitian Support; El Salvador Fills the Void.

The United States has abruptly suspended its financial contribution to the multinational security force deployed in Haiti, a decision that casts a shadow over the international effort to quell escalating gang violence in the Caribbean nation. This move, confirmed by UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric, effectively freezes the remaining $13.3 million of the $15 million pledged by the U.S. to the UN-managed Trust Fund supporting the force. The suspension comes on the heels of a broader State Department directive to halt all foreign assistance and review funding policies, reflecting a resurgence of the “America First” approach championed by the previous administration. This decision underscores a shift in U.S. foreign policy priorities and raises concerns about the long-term viability of the multinational security mission in Haiti. The timing of the suspension is particularly critical, as the mission is still in its early stages and heavily reliant on international funding to operate effectively.

The U.S. decision to withdraw its funding is a significant setback for the multinational force, which is primarily led by Kenya and tasked with combating rampant gang violence plaguing Haiti, especially its capital, Port-au-Prince. The force, while not a direct UN mission, relies heavily on the UN-managed Trust Fund for its financial sustenance. The initial U.S. pledge of $100 million, announced by Secretary of State Antony Blinken in March 2024, signaled a strong commitment to supporting Haiti’s security. A prior pledge of $200 million in February 2023 further reinforced this commitment. The sudden reversal of this financial support raises questions about the U.S.’s long-term strategy towards addressing the security crisis in Haiti and its commitment to international collaborations aimed at restoring stability in the region.

The escalating gang violence in Haiti has created a severe humanitarian and security crisis. The Haitian National Police (PNH) estimates that gangs control a staggering 85% of Port-au-Prince, highlighting the gravity of the situation. The gangs’ pervasive influence has led to widespread violence, displacement, and a breakdown of law and order, making it extremely challenging for ordinary citizens to access basic necessities and live in safety. The multinational force’s mandate is to assist the Haitian police in reclaiming control of gang-ridden areas and restoring some semblance of stability to the country. The U.S. funding cut threatens to hamper these efforts, potentially prolonging the suffering of the Haitian people.

Despite the U.S. funding withdrawal, the multinational security mission continues to receive support from other countries. A contingent of 70 personnel from El Salvador recently arrived in Haiti to bolster the force’s capabilities, primarily focusing on air support. This contribution is particularly crucial for medical evacuations and logistical operations. El Salvador’s involvement underscores the ongoing commitment of several nations to assist Haiti in its fight against gang violence. This collaborative approach, even in the face of U.S. withdrawal, signifies the international community’s recognition of the dire situation in Haiti and the importance of continued support.

The arrival of the Salvadoran contingent follows the deployment of over 600 Kenyan police officers, who form the backbone of the multinational force. These officers, along with personnel from Jamaica, Guatemala, and other participating countries, are working alongside the Haitian police and military to combat the gangs and restore order. The continued participation of these nations, even with diminished financial resources, demonstrates a shared commitment to addressing the security challenges in Haiti and supporting the long-term stability of the country. The multinational force’s efforts, despite the setbacks, represent a crucial step towards restoring peace and security in Haiti.

The suspension of U.S. funding presents a significant challenge to the multinational security mission in Haiti. However, the continued participation of other countries, like Kenya and El Salvador, provides a glimmer of hope for the troubled nation. The arrival of the Salvadoran team, specializing in air support, is a valuable addition to the force’s capabilities. The international community’s commitment, even with reduced financial resources, underscores the importance of collaborative efforts to address the complex security challenges facing Haiti. The success of the mission will ultimately depend on sustained international cooperation, adequate resources, and a comprehensive strategy that addresses the root causes of the gang violence, while simultaneously strengthening the capacity of the Haitian National Police to maintain long-term security.