U.S. Marines arrived in Haiti this week-end.
The United States deployed a contingent of Marines to Haitian territory, the U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince confirmed in a statement shared on Facebook.
This action, coordinated with the Haitian government and at the request of the embassy, aims to strengthen security at diplomatic facilities and support local forces.
“A team of Marines is now on the ground to ensure the safety of our embassy and to manage troop rotations,” the embassy said. The statement added that this military presence also allows the diplomatic mission to “continue supporting the Haitian National Police and the Multinational Security Support Mission, who are working courageously throughout the country.” The embassy emphasized that it remains open for emergency operations.
Haiti’s Humanitarian and Security Crisis
Haiti’s situation remains dire. According to the latest United Nations figures, 1.3 million people have been displaced from their homes, half of them children. Meanwhile, six million people are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance, AP News reported.
To address this crisis, the United States is backing a plan to transform the current international mission into a more robust “anti-gang force,” replacing the Kenyan-led mission that has been criticized as too limited.
The arrival of Marines highlights Washington’s strong commitment. This follows previous deployments of the Fleet Anti-terrorism Security Teams (FAST), which have reinforced embassy protection during periods of intense violence.
The U.S. Southern Command clarified that the new deployment also serves to rotate Marines already stationed in Haiti, while facilitating the departure of nonessential personnel and maintaining essential diplomatic services.
Symbol of International Concern
The Marines’ presence, alongside United Nations initiatives, underscores the severity of Haiti’s crisis. It provides symbolic protection and a measure of stability while international actors work toward building a stronger multinational security force (Reuters).
Still, experts stress that political and social solutions are essential. Haiti has faced years of institutional collapse, worsened by the 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moïse and subsequent mass prison breaks that freed violent offenders.
While the United States bolsters its presence through Marines, logistical aid, and international coordination, lasting peace depends on Haiti’s ability to rebuild a functional, just state. Foreign intervention, analysts warn, cannot substitute for this critical internal work.
Gangs, Kidnappings, and Private Security Firms
Gang violence remains relentless, with daily kidnappings and assaults. Recently, an Irish nun and children from an orphanage were freed after being abducted, AP News reported. Authorities suspect the “Viv Ansanm” gang was responsible, illustrating the growing power of armed groups in the capital.
In response, Haiti is also turning to controversial alternatives. The provisional government signed a ten-year contract with Vectus Global, a private security company led by Erik Prince. The agreement calls for reclaiming gang-controlled areas, securing customs operations, and protecting strategic sites. The firm plans to deploy hundreds of operatives, equipped with drones and modern technology.
However, the plan has raised concerns about Haiti’s sovereignty and human rights safeguards. Critics warn that outsourcing national security to a private firm could undermine the state’s authority and accountability.
