Russia and China Oppose U.S. Proposal on UN Peacekeeping in Haiti

Russia and China oppose a U.S.-led effort to convert the Kenya-led multinational force in Haiti into a U.N. peacekeeping mission amid escalating gang violence that has overwhelmed security in Port-au-Prince. They argue for urgent assistance rather than troop deployment, while many Haitian leaders continue to seek international support to restore order and security.

In a recent session of the United Nations, Russia and China expressed their firm opposition to a U.S. initiative aimed at converting the Kenya-led multinational force in Haiti into a U.N. peacekeeping mission. This resistance comes as gang violence escalates in Haiti, with gangs reportedly controlling 85% of the capital, Port-au-Prince. The United States proposed the change to secure consistent financing for the force, which suffers from a significant funding crisis. Despite discussions surrounding the transition, Russia and China rejected the proposal, calling for urgent aid rather than additional troop deployments, citing the dire conditions in Haiti as unsuitable for peacekeeping efforts. China’s Deputy U.N. Ambassador emphasized that peacekeepers should only operate in peaceful environments, cautioning against exposing them to violent confrontations with gangs. Meanwhile, Haitian officials continue to advocate for a U.N. peacekeeping presence, as urgent assistance remains critical amidst rising violence and instability, demonstrating a complex interplay of international diplomacy and local needs.

The alarming increase in gang violence in Haiti has raised significant concerns among international actors regarding the stability of the region. The Kenya-led multinational force was established to help restore order as gangs gained control of much of the capital, Port-au-Prince. The U.S. proposal for a U.N. peacekeeping mission was motivated by a desire for reliable funding mechanisms. However, it has encountered objections from Russia and China, who prioritize immediate assistance and warn against deploying peacekeepers in a conflict-ridden environment. The ongoing debate reflects the challenges in addressing security issues while balancing the diverse geopolitical interests of nations.

In conclusion, the opposition from Russia and China to the proposed transformation of the Kenya-led force into a U.N. peacekeeping mission highlights the complexities surrounding international interventions in Haiti. While the situation continues to deteriorate due to rampant gang violence, differing perspectives on the appropriateness and timing of such interventions illustrate the need for a collaborative approach that prioritizes both immediate assistance and sustainable security measures for the Haitian population.

Original Source: www.durangoherald.com