Russia and China opposed the U.S. initiative to turn the Kenya-led force in Haiti into a U.N. peacekeeping mission, emphasizing that conditions are unsuitable for peacekeeping due to escalating gang violence. The multinational force faces significant funding shortages, with only a fraction of its pledged personnel deployed. Calls for immediate assistance emphasize the urgent need for support in restoring security in Haiti amid criticism of past interventions.
At a recent United Nations Security Council meeting, Russia and China expressed their opposition to a U.S.-led initiative aimed at converting the Kenya-led multinational force in Haiti into a U.N. peacekeeping mission. The two nations argued that the current environment in Haiti, which has seen a surge in gang violence, is not conducive for peacekeeping operations. They emphasized that peacekeepers should be deployed only in scenarios where peace already exists, which is not the case in Haiti at present. The discussion arose amidst growing concerns as violent gangs reportedly control 85% of Port-au-Prince, leading to a serious security crisis in the capital.
As the U.S. attempts to secure funds and support for the U.N.-backed multinational force, which currently suffers from a funding deficit, Russia and China pointed out the necessity of providing immediate assistance and resources to the under-resourced force before considering any transition to a peacekeeping setup. Those opposing the transition included China’s Deputy U.N. Ambassador, Geng Shuang, who stated, “Deploying a peacekeeping operation at this time is nothing more than putting peacekeepers into the front line of the battles with gangs.” In contrast, there was support for the proposed transition, particularly from Haiti’s leaders and Kenyan officials who noted the urgent need for increased security measures.
Calls for assistance were further underscored by Haitian Dr. Bill Pape, who highlighted the plight of the Haitian police and multinational force in combating escalating violence, declaring, “I trust that seeking your support to restore security in my country is not asking too much.” Ultimately, the debate at the Security Council reflects the complex and precarious situation in Haiti, where the balance between funding, operational capacity, and the nature of international intervention remains a pivotal challenge.
The situation in Haiti has deteriorated significantly, with gangs exerting significant control over Port-au-Prince. The rise in gang violence has generated a humanitarian crisis, prompting discussions about international intervention. The Kenya-led multinational force was deployed to help restore order and support the struggling Haitian police. The proposal to transition this force to a U.N. peacekeeping mission has emerged as a topic of contention among members of the U.N. Security Council. Current funding issues and operational challenges further complicate the landscape for any peacekeeping efforts.
In conclusion, the debate surrounding the potential transition of the Kenya-led multinational force in Haiti to a U.N. peacekeeping mission highlights critical geopolitical disagreements and the dire security situation in Haiti. While Russia and China advocate for addressing immediate funding and resource needs over a peacekeeping deployment, proponents of the transition stress the necessity of establishing security in a country suffering from severe gang violence. This impasse presents a challenging scenario for policymakers aiming to assist Haiti effectively.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
