US Secretary Blinken Pushes for Renewed Peacekeeping and Elections in Haiti

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited Haiti to show support for a multinational mission aimed at fighting gang violence and to advocate for general elections. He discussed potential peacekeeping operations, met with key Haitian leaders, and emphasized the need for sustainable security efforts.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Haiti on Thursday to reaffirm the US government's commitment to a multinational mission aimed at curbing gang violence in the Caribbean nation. Blinken also pushed for long-awaited general elections and supported considering a peacekeeping operation.

Approximately 400 Kenyan police have been deployed to lead a UN-backed mission to address gang violence, although there are concerns about insufficient resources for the mission. 'At this critical moment, we do need more funding and personnel to sustain and carry out the objectives,' Blinken told reporters.

During his visit, Blinken met with key figures, including Haitian Prime Minister Garry Conille, a nine-member transitional presidential council, and leaders of the multinational mission. Discussions focused on ensuring that security personnel are well-trained, well-equipped, and held accountable. He also emphasized the importance of holding general elections to get Haiti back on a democratic track.

(With inputs from agencies.)