The United States has suspended financial support for the Kenya-led Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti, creating a funding crisis for the UN-backed operation. The freeze affects $13.3 million in pending aid, as confirmed by UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric.
Kenya has already sent 600 out of its pledged 800 officers to Haiti, with the latest group arriving in Port-au-Prince on January 19. The halt in US funding comes shortly after President William Ruto reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to supporting Kenya’s efforts in restoring stability in the Caribbean nation.
Despite this decision, Ruto emphasized Kenya’s strong ties with the US, describing the partnership as significant for both nations. The development follows recent remarks by former US President Donald Trump, who stated that the US should avoid involvement in foreign conflicts.
The funding freeze raises concerns about the mission’s financial stability as Kenya and other contributing nations continue their deployment in Haiti.