A contingent of 70 Salvadoran soldiers arrived in Haiti on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, as part of international efforts to support the fight against criminal gangs operating in the country. These soldiers were received by Haitian authorities, including Leslie Voltaire, President of the Transitional Council (CPT), Rameau Normil, Director General of the Haitian National Police (PNH), as well as foreign diplomats, such as Antoine Michon, French Ambassador to Haiti, and André François Giroux, Canadian Ambassador. They join an initial team of eight Salvadoran soldiers already stationed in Haiti.
A crucial reinforcement in the fight against gang violence. The Salvadoran soldiers will be deployed to strengthen anti-gang operations in Haiti, particularly in medical evacuation missions during security interventions. The Multinational Security Support Mission (MMSS), which these soldiers are joining, continues to grow progressively, as armed gangs control large parts of the country, particularly in the capital, Port-au-Prince, and in areas like Kenscoff, where the population lives in constant fear.
Upon their arrival, the 70 soldiers were welcomed by several Haitian and diplomatic figures. President Leslie Voltaire, accompanied by Godfrey Otungue, Commander-in-Chief of the MMSS, and Rameau Normil, Director General of the PNH, expressed gratitude to the Salvadoran government for this reinforcement. The French and Canadian ambassadors, Antoine Michon and André François Giroux, were also present to emphasize the importance of this international collaboration.
In his welcome speech, CPT President Leslie Voltaire praised the Salvadoran government’s commitment to supporting Haiti in its pacification efforts. He emphasized that the arrival of these soldiers would strengthen the presence of the MMSS and provide valuable assistance to local authorities in their fight against gangs. “We greatly appreciate El Salvador’s efforts to contribute to Haiti’s security and stability,” declared Mr. Voltaire.
Armed gangs continue to spread terror in Haiti, controlling vast areas of the country and multiplying attacks. The Haitian authorities, with the support of the international community, are striving to regain control of these regions, but the situation remains extremely complex. The arrival of this Salvadoran contingent is another sign of international solidarity in the fight for security and peace in Haiti.
The presence of Salvadoran soldiers is part of a multinational initiative aimed at supporting the Haitian police in restoring order. As gangs continue to control entire neighborhoods, international cooperation remains essential to provide sustainable solutions to the security crisis affecting Haiti. Foreign military reinforcements, particularly from countries such as El Salvador, Kenya, and Canada, contribute to assisting Haitian authorities in the fight against insecurity.
The arrival of these 70 Salvadoran soldiers in Haiti marks a major development in efforts to stabilize the country. Their role in anti-gang operations and medical evacuation missions is crucial in supporting Haitian authorities and protecting civilians from escalating violence. This action also highlights the importance of international solidarity in addressing security crises. As Haiti continues to face an increasingly challenging situation, the commitment of the international community remains a key pillar in overcoming this crisis.