Amid the escalating violence and gang control gripping Haiti, the United States is reportedly considering the deployment of its troops to assist in restoring order. General Laura Richardson, Commander of U.S. Southern Command, revealed the readiness of U.S. forces to intervene if requested by the State Department and the Department of Defense, although she emphasized that any action would not be a solely American endeavor.
In an interview with Responsible Statecraft, General Richardson underscored the severity of the situation in Haiti, citing the surge in violence and gang dominance. “We are prepared if called upon by our State Department and Department of Defense. I, however, do not envision a US-only solution,” she stated.
The decision to potentially deploy U.S. troops comes amid delays in the deployment of Kenyan forces, whose assistance Haiti eagerly awaits. The Kenyan government is awaiting the establishment of a transitional council before dispatching troops to address the crisis.
General Richardson, speaking at the Atlantic Council, stressed the need for an international effort to tackle the crisis in Haiti. She reiterated that while the United States remains vigilant, any deployment would be preceded by efforts to garner international support from allies.
“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,” General Richardson emphasized, reflecting the gravity of the humanitarian situation in Haiti.
The violence in Haiti has reached alarming levels, resulting in the displacement of thousands and loss of lives. Gangs have seized control, disrupting vital operations such as those at airports, and facilitating the escape of over 4,000 inmates from prisons.
The recent resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry further complicates the situation. Henry, who was unable to return to Haiti and forced to land in Puerto Rico amid the chaos, was in Kenya to finalize a deployment agreement with President William Ruto. His departure has delayed the deployment of Kenyan troops and those from other nations until a transitional council is established.
Despite these setbacks, President Ruto has affirmed Kenya’s commitment to assisting Haiti, promising to proceed with the deployment once conditions permit.
However, opposition to the international intervention persists within Haiti, with gang leaders urging foreign powers, including the United States, not to interfere in the country’s affairs.
As the crisis in Haiti continues to unfold, the potential deployment of U.S. troops signals a heightened international response to address the dire situation. With violence escalating and civilian lives at risk, the world watches closely as efforts are made to stabilize the troubled nation.