China and Russia have rejected a proposal to transform Haiti's Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission into a United Nations peacekeeping operation.
Ecuador and the United States submitted the proposal during a UN Security Council briefing to address escalating gang violence in the Caribbean nation.
China argued against the shift, stating there is "no peace to keep" in Haiti. Instead, Beijing emphasized strengthening the MSS mission's role in restoring stability. Highlighting the need for pragmatic solutions, China urged the Security Council to prioritize deploying MSS forces effectively.
Russia echoed similar concerns, claiming Haiti's current conditions are unsuitable for UN peacekeeping operations. The Russian delegate criticized what he described as the U.S.'s external interference in Haiti’s affairs, cautioning against rushed decisions.
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U.S. Ambassador Dorothy Shea countered, emphasizing the MSS mission’s progress in curbing gang activities. She commended the efforts of Kenya, Jamaica, Belize, and the Bahamas, whose forces are leading security initiatives alongside the Haitian National Police (HNP).
Shea also called for respecting Haiti's sovereignty and advancing Haitian-led political solutions, including free and fair election preparations.
In September, the Security Council extended the Kenya-led MSS mission’s mandate, which plans to deploy 2,500 officers to bolster Haiti's police. Despite these efforts, violence continues to surge. Recent UN reports indicate over 150 fatalities, 92 injuries, and 20,000 displaced individuals since November 11 as gangs vie for dominance in Port-au-Prince.
This unrest comes amidst political upheaval, with Haiti’s transitional council recently dismissing Prime Minister Garry Conille. Entrepreneur Alix Didier Fils-Aimé has since been appointed as his successor, tasked with steering the nation toward democratic restoration.
