U.S. Suspends Aid to Haiti Security Mission

Mederson Alcindor

Haitian authorities will now have to seek alternative sources to maintain the multinational security mission in Haiti.

United Nations spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric announced on Tuesday that the United States had suspended its contribution to the multinational security force for Haiti, effective immediately. This decision comes amid political and economic tensions and marks a significant shift in international efforts to support Haiti against gang violence and growing instability.

During his statement, Stéphane Dujarric specified that the United States had formally informed the UN of its decision to suspend its agreement regarding contributions to the multinational security forces in Haiti. “We have received an official notification from the United States requesting the suspension of the work agreement on contributions to the multinational security forces,” Dujarric stated.

This suspension follows an order by President Donald Trump to impose a temporary freeze on U.S. foreign aid, aimed at ensuring that aid disbursements align with his “America First” policy. This measure, which took effect on January 24, 2025, affects not only aid to Haiti but also other assistance programs worldwide.

As part of international aid efforts for Haiti, the United States had pledged a significant contribution. In March 2024, Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced that the United States would contribute $100 million to support the multinational security force led by Kenya. This force was tasked with assisting the Haitian National Police in combating gang violence that continues to destabilize the country.

Additionally, in February 2023, the United States had committed $200 million to support the Special Security Mission (SSM) in Haiti. However, to date, only $15 million had been promised to the trust fund, of which $1.7 million has already been spent, while $13.3 million remains frozen.

The impact of this decision on Haiti’s security situation could be significant. Armed gangs currently control 85% of Port-au-Prince, the capital, according to recent data from the Haitian National Police (HNP). The multinational force, led by Kenya, was a key element in helping to curb rising violence and supporting Haitian authorities in restoring peace.

When asked by journalists about the status of the frozen funds, Dujarric stated that, for now, the money remains “frozen” and will not be returned to the United States. This situation raises concerns about the future of funding for the multinational force and other international aid projects for Haiti.

The suspension of U.S. aid may further complicate efforts to stabilize Haiti. Given the widespread gang violence, which dominates large portions of the capital and other regions, international support remains crucial. Haitian authorities and the international community may now have to seek alternative funding sources or new partners to continue addressing the crisis.

The U.S. decision to suspend its contribution to the multinational security force for Haiti highlights the tensions surrounding foreign aid policy and Haiti’s ongoing instability. While this move creates a significant gap in security funding, it also underscores the importance of international cooperation in addressing the complex challenges Haiti faces. The future of aid to Haiti will likely depend on upcoming policy adjustments, both in the United States and within the international community.

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