US Considers Sending Troops to Haiti Amid Escalating Crisis: International Support Key, Says General Richardson
The United States appears to be considering the possibility of sending its troops to Haiti, despite previous statements regarding the peacekeeping mission.
As per General Laura Richardson, the Commander of US Southern Command, the United States was ready to deploy in response to escalating violence and gang control in the Caribbean nation.
Speaking on March 20, to Responsible Statecraft, an American Magazine, the army official said, “We are prepared if called upon by our State Department and Department of Defense. I however do not envision a US-only solution.”
This choice has been influenced by the postponement of sending Kenyan troops to suppress the turmoil. Nonetheless, the Kenyan government is anticipating the formation of a transitional council.
During his speech at the Atlantic Council on Tuesday, March 19th, Richardson emphasized that while one nation may take the lead, resolving the crisis in Haiti necessitates an international approach.
She also stressed that before deploying US troops to Haiti, the Joe Biden administration would seek international backing. Additionally, she mentioned that the US was closely monitoring the situation and had various contingency plans in place.
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“We want to be able to do what’s right and humane and be able to take care of the populations that are trying to escape the crisis,” Richardson added.
The situation in Haiti has worsened as numerous individuals have been forced to flee their homes, and many have tragically perished due to the escalating violence.
Gangs have seized control of the nation, leading to disruptions in critical areas such as airports. Furthermore, these gangs have facilitated the escape of more than 4,000 prisoners.
The disorderliness led to Ariel Henry’s resignation as Prime Minister when he was barred from entering and compelled to land in Puerto Rico. Henry was in Kenya to finalize an agreement with President William Ruto that would facilitate the deployment.
Henry’s departure disrupted the deployment plans, delaying the dispatch of troops from Kenya and other nations until a transitional council was put in place.
Nevertheless, despite facing obstacles, President Ruto has guaranteed the UN and Haiti that Kenya will persist with the deployment.
Significantly, the mission led by Kenya has faced resistance from gang leaders within the Caribbean nation, who have urged the United States and other foreign powers to refrain from involvement.
US Considers Sending Troops to Haiti Amid Escalating Crisis: International Support Key, Says General Richardson
