Kenyan Troops in Haiti on High Alert as Gangs Threaten Coup, Trump Pledges U.S. Support

Kenyan security forces deployed in Haiti have been placed on high alert amid intelligence reports that a coalition of criminal gangs is plotting to overthrow the transitional government. The warning comes as the Caribbean nation prepares for elections set for February 7, 2026, aimed at restoring constitutional rule.

The United States, under President Donald Trump, has reaffirmed strong support for the Kenya-led Multinational Security Support Mission (MSSM) operating in Haiti. In a statement released Sunday, the U.S. State Department reiterated its backing for ongoing efforts to stabilize the country and prevent further violence.

Following talks between U.S. State Department officials and CARICOM Chair and Barbadian Prime Minister Mia Mottley, Washington expressed concern over threats to the Transitional Presidential Council in Haiti.

“The United States supports CARICOM’s condemnation of any attempt to disrupt the transitional process through violence,” read a statement from the U.S. State Department spokesperson. “We continue to work with regional partners, including Kenya, to help bring peace and stability to Haiti.”

CARICOM warned that the gang-led push to seize power could worsen Haiti’s humanitarian crisis and derail plans for free and fair elections. The regional bloc urged international partners—including the United Nations and the Organization of American States—to provide urgent security support.

As of January, the International Organization for Migration reported over 1 million Haitians displaced due to violence. In the past month alone, 60,000 more have fled their homes, many risking their lives in search of safety.

Kenyan police units, which arrived in Port-au-Prince in January, are leading international peace efforts in the troubled nation amid rising tension and growing international concern.