The U.S. has frozen over $13 million in funding for a Kenya-led international security mission in Haiti aimed at combating armed gangs. This is part of a wider 90-day review ordered by President Trump under his ‘America First’ policy. The mission, while endorsed by the UN Security Council, faces significant challenges due to limited funding and operational success.
The funding meant for a Kenya-led international security mission in Haiti has been frozen due to a 90-day review initiated by President Donald Trump. Under his directive, over $13 million in U.S. aid intended to combat armed gangs in Haiti has been halted, as confirmed by United Nations representatives. This mission is crucial as gangs in Port-au-Prince have formed a powerful alliance and expanded their control over the city and surrounding areas, severely affecting local stability.
The mission, though authorized by the UN Security Council, is not managed by the UN and requires voluntary contributions to operate. Currently, it consists of nearly 900 personnel from Kenya, El Salvador, Jamaica, Guatemala, and Belize. Despite over $110 million accumulated in a UN trust fund for the initiative—major contributions coming from Canada—the operations have seen minimal success thus far.
UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric noted that the U.S. originally pledged $15 million to the trust fund but had already expended $1.7 million. Following the announcement, officials received a notification from the U.S. requesting an immediate stop to their contributions, leading to the freezing of $13.3 million. This action aligns with Trump’s broader effort to reassess foreign aid under his “America First” policy.
On January 20, shortly after taking office, Trump initiated the 90-day pause to evaluate foreign aid allocations. He has also hinted at potentially winding down the U.S. Agency for International Development, which could fundamentally alter how the U.S. provides international assistance, emphasizing domestic priorities over global engagements.
This article discusses recent developments in U.S. foreign aid, specifically focusing on a security mission in Haiti that is primarily led by Kenyan forces. The funding freeze is a part of President Trump’s directive to pause aid for a thorough review under his ‘America First’ policy. It highlights the ongoing security crisis in Haiti and the international community’s attempts to stabilize the situation through a coordinated mission while also showcasing the complexities involved with funding and international contributions.
In summary, the U.S. has temporarily suspended funding intended for an international security mission in Haiti led by Kenya, reflecting a significant shift in foreign aid strategy under the Trump administration. This decision has implications for the ongoing fight against gang violence in Haiti, showcasing the challenges and dependencies of international missions on sustained financial support. The need for strategic reassessment of foreign aid highlights the evolving landscape of U.S. international relations and support.
Original Source: ntvkenya.co.ke