Blinken announces increased aid to Haiti

Port-au-Prince, Haiti.- U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced an additional $45 million in humanitarian aid to Haiti during his visit to Port-au-Prince, while emphasizing the need to boost international support for the Multinational Security Support Mission (MSM). This mission, which has deployed 380 Kenyan police officers since June, aims to stabilize the country and improve security. Blinken stressed the importance of establishing an electoral council to hold elections by 2025. The U.S. has already contributed over $300 million to the MSM, and Blinken highlighted the need for more international funding and personnel.

During the visit, Blinken reviewed Kenyan police operations, who are patrolling alongside the Haitian National Police in Port-au-Prince. He noted significant progress in restoring security, such as the reopening of the capital’s airport and hospital. Blinken also praised the contributions of Kenya, which plans to send up to 2,500 officers, and other countries like Canada, Jamaica, and El Salvador for their support. Despite progress, the mission has faced delays, and Haiti remains in a state of emergency.