DistantNews
Support us
US condemns 'savage' gang attacks in Haiti, urges rapid deployment of UN security force
🇯🇲 Jamaica /Conflict & Security

US condemns 'savage' gang attacks in Haiti, urges rapid deployment of UN security force

From Jamaica Observer · () English

Translated from English and summarized by DistantNews. Read the original for the full story.

At a glance

News Named sources Ongoing story
  • The US condemned deadly gang attacks in Haiti's Kenscoff community and urged the rapid deployment of the UN-authorised Gang Suppression Force (GSF).
  • Ambassador Jennifer Locetta described the violence as "savage" and highlighted the ongoing security crisis, accusing gangs of hindering democratic processes.
  • The US reiterated its commitment to supporting Haitian-led efforts, emphasizing the need for both security and economic development for lasting stability.

The United States has strongly condemned the recent "savage" gang attacks on the Kenscoff community in Haiti, calling for the immediate and rapid deployment of the United Nations-authorised Gang Suppression Force (GSF). Addressing the UN Security Council, US Representative Jennifer Locetta described the violence as a stark reminder of Haiti's severe security crisis, where armed gangs have terrorized communities, killed civilians, and destroyed homes.

savage

— Jennifer LocettaUS Alternative Representative for Special Political Affairs, Ambassador Jennifer Locetta, described the attacks as “savage”.

Locetta accused gang coalitions of actively preventing Haitians from exercising their democratic rights, stating that "terrorists cannot take democracy hostage for their own selfish and violent ends." She emphasized the critical need to protect civilians and hold those responsible for the violence accountable. The US diplomat affirmed Washington's ongoing commitment to supporting Haitian-led initiatives aimed at combating gang violence, restoring state authority, and creating an environment where citizens can freely choose their leaders.

Terrorists cannot take democracy hostage for their own selfish and violent ends

— Jennifer LocettaLocetta also accused gang coalitions of seeking to prevent Haitians from exercising their right to elect a representative government, stating, “Terrorists cannot take democracy hostage for their own selfish and violent ends.”

The US representative stressed the importance of the GSF's mandate, urging member states to provide the necessary troop and police contributions, as well as financial support through the UN Trust Fund. "The GSF needs equipment, resources and political will to do and finish this job," Locetta stated, advocating for the renewal of the force's mandate next month.

The GSF needs equipment, resources and political will to do and finish this job

— Jennifer LocettaLocetta urged UN member states to help troop- and police-contributing countries deploy personnel as quickly as possible and to provide financial support through the UN Trust Fund for the mission, stating, “The GSF needs equipment, resources and political will to do and finish this job.”

However, the US also acknowledged that security measures alone are insufficient for long-term stability in Haiti. Locetta called for international investment in infrastructure and job creation, highlighting that economic opportunities and accountable governance are essential to offer young Haitians viable alternatives to gang involvement. The United States pledged to continue working with Haitians and international partners to end the crisis and restore stability to the nation.

The United States stands with Haiti and will continue to work with Haitians and international partners to end this crisis and restore Haiti’s stability

— Jennifer Locetta“The United States stands with Haiti and will continue to work with Haitians and international partners to end this crisis and restore Haiti’s stability,” she said.
About this summary

Originally published by Jamaica Observer in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized automatically by DistantNews, with a note on how the source frames the story. Not individually reviewed before publishing. How this works.

More Stories

From Our Blog