U.S. Drops Push for U.N. Peacekeeping Plan in Haiti Amid Russian and Chinese Opposition

The United States has withdrawn its proposal for the U.N. Security Council to transition a security mission in Haiti into a formal peacekeeping operation. The move aims to placate opposition from Russia and China. The current mission, led by Kenya, faces funding and manpower challenges amid Haiti's ongoing humanitarian crisis.

The United States has retracted its proposal for the U.N. Security Council to convert a security mission in Haiti into a formal U.N. peacekeeping operation, according to diplomats. This decision comes in response to objections from Russia and China.

The 15-member council is set to vote on Monday on a draft resolution to extend the mandate for the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission until October 2, 2025. Initially approved a year ago, the Kenyan-led mission has so far failed to make significant progress in stabilizing Haiti, with only 400 Kenyan police officers deployed and insufficient funding.

Russia and China have resisted the council's request for a transition plan, resulting in the U.S. removing such language from the draft resolution. Nonetheless, the U.S. reaffirms its commitment to restoring security in Haiti. However, U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres noted that a peacekeeping force might not be the best solution amid Haiti's complex humanitarian challenges, including gang violence and mass displacements.

(With inputs from agencies.)