President Biden expressed confidence on Thursday in the ability of a Kenyan-led multinational police force to effectively combat the armed gangs that have wreaked havoc in Haiti and taken control of the capital, Port-au-Prince.
During a press conference with Kenyan President William Ruto at the White House, President Biden was asked if they could “break the backs” of the armed gangs. In response, Biden confidently answered “yes.”
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“This crisis will be addressed,” Biden assured. “We are confident in our ability to tackle this situation.”
Kenya and the U.S. are collaborating to form a coalition of nations aimed at combating the armed gangs responsible for inflicting immense suffering on Haiti. Deputy President Ruto expressed his belief that this united mission has the potential to defeat these criminal groups.
He emphasized that gangs and criminals do not possess nationalities, religions, or languages. He vowed to handle these gangs firmly and decisively, always staying within the confines of the law.
The anticipated start of the deployment of the Kenyan-led international police force, which was unofficially set for Thursday, seems to have been postponed. This delay comes as Ruto concludes his three-day state visit to Washington, D.C., on Friday.
The Biden administration is seeking $300 million from Congress for the mission, in addition to $60 million for equipment support.
Kenya has been actively involved in peacekeeping missions for the past 40 years, providing assistance to 47 countries. Deputy President Ruto emphasized that Nairobi’s decision to deploy troops was entirely voluntary.
“The collective responsibility for peace and security, both globally and in Haiti, lies with all nations and individuals who uphold the values of freedom, self-determination, democracy, and justice,” he emphasized. “This is precisely why Kenya has embraced this important responsibility.”
After the Haitian government was overthrown in February, Kenya temporarily halted its deployment plans. However, with the formation of a transitional council in Haiti to guide the nation towards new leadership, Kenya’s deployment plans are now back on track.
