U.S. Freezes Funding for Kenya-Led Security Mission in Haiti

The U.S. has frozen over $13 million allocated for a Kenya-led security mission in Haiti due to President Trump’s review of foreign aid. This mission aims to combat escalating gang violence but has faced challenges. The decision reflects ongoing changes in U.S. foreign assistance policies under the Trump administration.

The United States has frozen over $13 million in funding designated for an international security mission in Haiti, as a part of President Donald Trump’s 90-day review of foreign aid. The United Nations confirmed this decision, noting that it impacts contributions aimed at combating the surge of armed gangs in Port-au-Prince, which are now controlling most of the city and expanding their influence.

The international mission, which has been sanctioned by the UN Security Council but is not a UN operation, relies on voluntary financial support. Despite nearly 900 police and troops from various nations, including Kenya and El Salvador, the mission has struggled to restore order in Haiti. A total of over $110 million has been contributed to this mission’s UN trust fund, with Canada being the largest donor.

According to UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric, the U.S. previously committed $15 million to this fund, with $1.7 million already spent, leaving $13.3 million frozen indefinitely. Dujarric revealed that the U.S. government has sent an official notification to halt all contributions. This decision aligns with Trump’s broader efforts to reassess foreign aid policies under his administration.

During his inauguration period, President Trump initiated a review period for foreign aid to ensure alignment with his “America First” strategy. He expressed intentions to significantly reform the U.S. Agency for International Development, subsequently altering how the U.S. allocates its foreign assistance.

This article discusses the implications of President Trump’s freeze on U.S. funding for an international security mission in Haiti, organized to confront escalating gang violence in the region. Following his directive, concerned international agencies are now grappling with the long-term effects of such funding cuts on local security and stability efforts. The freeze not only affects the financial stability of the mission but also reflects a pivotal moment in U.S. foreign aid policy.

In summary, the freezing of over $13 million in U.S. funds for the Kenya-led security mission in Haiti marks a significant impact on international support for efforts to counter armed gangs in the region. The situation illustrates the complexities of foreign aid and the need for the U.S. to reevaluate its foreign assistance strategies in light of its domestic priorities. The changes initiated by President Trump could reshape how such missions receive funding in the future.

Original Source: ntvkenya.co.ke