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Biden Administration Rules Out Sending U.S. Troops to Haiti Amid Security Crisis
In 2004, President Bush ordered U.S. Marines to Haiti as part of an "interim international force" to restore order.
In response to a surge in violence orchestrated by a coalition of gang leaders, the Biden administration has confirmed that it will not deploy U.S. troops to aid Haiti’s national police in handling the unfolding security crisis. Gangs, uniting against the Haitian government, have targeted critical infrastructure, including the main seaport, airports, and prisons. The situation prompted urgent diplomatic discussions between U.S. and Haitian officials, with initial considerations of potential emergency deployment of U.S. special forces. However, concerns about the readiness of an international security mission, led by Kenya, led to the decision against sending U.S. troops.
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A National Security Council official stated, “The United States is not sending U.S. troops to Haiti to support the Haitian national police’s security operations.” The administration Is actively coordinating with the international community to swiftly provide support to Haiti, particularly its national police, to restore security in the face of escalating violence. Gangs, previously operating independently, have now collaborated to challenge the Haitian government’s control, posing a significant threat to stability.
Security forces engaged in prolonged clashes with gangs attempting to seize the international airport in Port-au-Prince on Monday. This followed orchestrated prison breaks and a siege on the main port, prompting Haiti to declare a state of emergency. Prime Minister Ariel Henry, currently abroad finalizing the deployment of an armed force from Kenya, faces challenges in restoring order upon his return. The U.S. embassy in Port-au-Prince issued an alert advising American citizens to leave immediately amid the deteriorating security situation.
The White House Is actively expediting the deployment of the Kenya-led multinational force. John Kirby, White House National Security Communications Advisor, emphasized the urgency in stabilizing the situation and working towards a lasting political solution. While the Biden administration has pledged $200 million to support the mission, obstacles, including opposition from Republican lawmakers, have impeded the disbursement of a $50 million request.
Kenyan President William Ruto affirmed readiness to deploy 1,000 police officers pending funding approval, with a bilateral security-sharing agreement with Haiti awaiting finalization. The situation in Haiti underscores the challenges in maintaining a democratic transition amid escalating violence.
