White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre announces aid amounting to $10 million in the form of weapons, ammunition and protective equipment for the benefit of the PNH in order to protect civilians and critical infrastructure against organized and targeted gang attacks.
This may be a turning point in American policy towards Haiti in the face of the current crisis. Until now, the Biden administration refused to provide weapons and ammunition to the Haitian police.
Despite numerous reminders to the international community, no foreign power wanted to be financially involved in providing real support in arms and ammunition. Only defensive and protective equipment had so far been provided to the PNH. But the situation has changed and, in less than a month, the country fell into extreme violence.
In view of the numerous abuses committed by armed gangs in Haiti and also put under pressure by the left wing of the democratic camp, the American Ministry of Internal Security is releasing emergency aid in the amount of 10 million dollars in the form weapons, ammunition and protective equipment for the benefit of the PNH.
This assistance program will help Haitian security forces protect civilians and critical infrastructure from organized and targeted gang attacks, said White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre.
“Our support aims to help Haitians restore security, order and the rule of law and protect civilians, while remaining committed to supporting Haitians’ efforts towards a peaceful transition of power”
Via the INL, the allocations made as part of the $200 million in aid allocated since 2022 have mainly been vehicles, personal protective equipment and training.
This choice is also a recognition of the difficulties encountered in providing effective and decisive security support at a time when the PNH has lost control of a very large part of the metropolitan area of Port-au-Prince.
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